US Overflight Permits Not Part of MDCP: Defense Ministry

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Indonesian Ministry of Defense confirmed that U.S. aircraft overflight permits are not part of the newly signed Major Defense Cooperation Partnership (MDCP) between Indonesia and the United States. Officials stressed that sovereignty remains the government’s priority.

The Ministry's Defense Information Bureau Head Brig. Gen. Rico Ricardo Sirait said that the agreement does not include provisions for U.S. aircraft to fly over Indonesian airspace. “The MDCP does not cover overflight clearances,” he said on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, as quoted by Antara.

The MDCP, signed Monday at the Pentagon by Defense Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin and U.S. Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, outlines cooperation in defense technology, operational readiness, professional military education, and personnel exchanges.

Rico emphasized that any future decision on airspace access will be guided by sovereignty, national interests, and compliance with Indonesian and international law. “All cooperation must deliver tangible benefits for Indonesia without compromising sovereignty or independent foreign policy,” he said.

He added that the MDCP offers opportunities to strengthen Indonesia’s defense capacity, improve weapon systems, and enhance military education and training, while reinforcing long-standing defense ties with the U.S.

However, he dismissed claims that the agreement grants U.S. aircraft unrestricted access to Indonesian airspace, noting the issue remains under review. ***