T

wo F-16 jetfighters from the Ranai Airbase in Natuna ousted a foreign Hercules C-130 on Saturday that was caught entering Indonesian territory over Natuna, forcing the troop-carrying military aircraft to move to the north of the island.

Ranai Airbase commander Col. Nurtantio Affan told The Jakarta Post on Sunday that the ousting was based on a command from the National Air Defense Sector I Command (Kosekhanudnas I) in Jakarta that was issued after receiving a report on a foreign aircraft entering Indonesia without prior consent.

“We could not detect its country of origin but we have driven it away toward the north from Natuna Island,” Affan said.

Affan said the Indonesian jet fighters tried to make contact with the foreign military aircraft through the international frequency but received no response. It then shifted its course and headed to the north.

Affan also said that since January, the Indonesian Air Force had increased the status of Ranai Airbase from C to B, which means that it now carries greater force and significance. For example, previously its commander was a lieutenant colonel whereas now they are a colonel. “We have four to six jetfighters on standby at Natuna and that can be increased using various other squadrons whenever needed,” said Affan, adding that foreign military aircraft from time to time trespassed over Natuna territory.