Overview

• Russia has officially requested to base long-range aircraft at Manuhua Air Force Base in Biak Numfor, Papua, Indonesia, approximately 1300 kilometers from Australia's mainland.
• Indonesia's Ministry of Defence is consulting with other government departments on how to respond to the request but has not yet issued an official acknowledgment.
• The request follows growing military ties between Indonesia and Russia, including joint naval drills last November and a high-level visit by Russian official Sergei Shoigu in February.
• Australian officials, including Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Defence Minister Richard Marles, have expressed concerns over the potential destabilizing impact on Indo-Pacific security.
• Experts warn that the move could signify Russia's broader effort to expand its military footprint in the Indo-Pacific region, shifting regional power dynamics.