By Alfaritsy 
Indonesian Air Force (TNI AU) today, Wednesday (April 9, 2025), commemorated its 79th anniversary.
The celebration was held modestly with a formal ceremony at the Indonesian Air Force Headquarters Field (Mabes TNI AU) in Cilangkap, East Jakarta.
Air Force Chief of Staff (KSAU) Air Marshal M. Tonny Harjono served as the Inspector of the Ceremony.
According to Kompas.com’s observation, the ceremony began at around 7:00 AM local time
and was attended by the entire leadership of the Indonesian Air Force.
Various units of the Air Force, such as the Quick Reaction Troops Command (Kopasgat) and the Air Force Military Police, solemnly participated in the event.
No aerial displays were presented during this year’s anniversary ceremony. This marks a clear departure from the usual TNI AU tradition in previous years.
Based on Kompas.com’s records, last year’s main celebration was held at the Indonesian Air Force Academy (AAU) in Yogyakarta.
That celebration featured a full ceremony and an aerial demonstration involving TNI AU’s aircraft.
Deliberately Held Modestly
Speaking after the ceremony, the Air Force Chief of Staff confirmed that the modest approach was intentional.
According to him, the simplicity was meant to encourage internal reflection within the Air Force.
“Of course, people may question why this event is held simply. But simplicity does not mean the Air Force is doing nothing,” said KSAU after the ceremony on Wednesday.
“At this meaningful moment, the Air Force is focusing more on self-introspection — reinforcing our defense equipment readiness and enhancing the professionalism of our personnel,” he added.
Not Related to Government Efficiency Policy
On that occasion, KSAU also dismissed the notion that the modest celebration was linked to President Prabowo Subianto’s government efficiency policies.
He explained that preparations for this year’s celebration had already been made the previous year, long before any efficiency directives were introduced.
“This has nothing to do with efficiency. Everything was planned well in advance. Our annual ceremonies are scheduled a year earlier. This year’s event was already included in our 2024 plans,” said Tonny.
In the lead-up to the anniversary, the Air Force had already carried out several activities such as
community service programs (bakti sosial) and visits to the graves of past leaders.
As for the aerial demonstration, he noted that the Air Force had already held one during the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) Day in October last year.
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“If people are asking why this year’s Air Force Day wasn’t a grand celebration, it’s because we already showcased our strength in the previous aerial demonstration,” emphasized the Air Force Chief of Staff (KSAU).
“In addition, we also conducted the Angkasa Yudha exercise back in October. All of the Air Force’s capabilities and strength have been demonstrated. Now, we are focusing more internally with a modest approach,” he added.