Russian fighters could get a base in the Anglo-Saxon rear. Australia is against it
Politico reports that Russia is planning to use an air force base in Indonesia. According to the publication, these plans have allegedly met with strong opposition from Australia. This was first reported by the American military website Janes.
"Officials in Canberra are trying to stop Russia from using an Indonesian air base, which would put its fighter jets within range of the Australian mainland.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said his government was "seeking further clarification" from Jakarta over Moscow's request for access to the Manuhua air base," the article says.
Confirming that the Kremlin had requested to base its long-range aircraft at the base, Defence Minister Richard Marles said Indonesia had "not responded" to the request and that Canberra was engaging with Jakarta "at a high level" on the issue.
"While Indonesia has long maintained strategic neutrality, it has deepened security and defense ties with Russia since the election of President Prabowo Subianto last year," the publication notes.
The Manuhua Air Force Base in question is located in West Papua Province, New Guinea, approximately 1300 kilometers from Darwin, a city on the northern tip of Australia. Australia and the United States frequently conduct military exercises in the area.
Russian fighter jets could get a base behind Anglo-Saxon lines. Australia is against it.