The Indonesian Air Force tested its natural disaster response capabilities through the 2026 Regional Air Command I Readiness Exercise II, held at Sugiri Sukani Air Force Base, Majalengka Regency, West Java.
The Commander of the National Air Operations Command Air Marshal Minggit Tribowo in his statement in Majalengka, Friday, said the exercise aimed to measure the readiness of personnel, defense equipment, and units within Kodau I to face various potential disasters.
"This exercise is a means to test the capabilities of all elements of the Kodau I ranks," he said.
He said that Kodau I has a broad area of responsibility, covering West Java, several areas in Sumatra and Central Kalimantan, so all units must have the ability to respond quickly to support natural disaster management.
He explained that the series of exercises had been ongoing since June 8, 2026, starting from the planning stage, assessment, to field maneuvers that simulate emergency conditions.
In the exercise, the Indonesian Air Force deployed a number of defense equipment, such as helicopters and CN-295 aircraft to support reconnaissance, personnel dispatch and distribution of logistical assistance.
Minggit said the scenario implemented was based on the experience of humanitarian operations carried out by the Indonesian Air Force when assisting with disaster management in Sumatra.
According to him, rapid response capabilities are not only necessary for distributing social assistance, but also in supporting the overall disaster management process.
In addition to being centered in Majalengka, he continued, the exercise was attended by all air bases in the Kodau I area via video conference to ensure the readiness of units in each region.
He said that Sugiri Sukani Air Force Base was chosen as the training location because it was considered to have the potential to be developed as a base to support disaster management operations.
"Therefore, collaboration with local governments and their ranks is crucial. We will continue to develop this model. If something happens, we can work together with the civilian components in the region," said Minggit.
Meanwhile, Majalengka Regent Eman Suherman assessed that the training was a means of disaster mitigation education for the community and local government.
"This activity is a learning experience for us and the Majalengka community in understanding disaster mitigation and response efforts," he said.
