DENPASAR, Indonesia – Hawaii Air National Guard personnel from the 154th Wing participated in air-to-air refueling with the Indonesian Air Force to support F-16 recertification requirements identified during the 2024 Airmen-to-Airmen Talks.
The training strengthened interoperability, operational effectiveness and regional security efforts between the two forces in Denpasar, Indonesia, Feb. 17-21.
The engagement was part of the Department of Defense National Guard Bureau State Partnership Program, which has played a critical role in advancing air-to-air refueling capabilities between Hawaii ANG and the Indonesian Air Force.
In this training cycle, five new and 21 IDAF F-16 pilots successfully earned their air-refueling qualifications. The 203rd Air Refueling Squadron supported over 40 F-16 sorties, demonstrating the increasing complexity and operational integration of these joint capabilities.
“For many of us, this mission isn’t just about fuel transfers — it’s about trust, adaptability and building a foundation for future interoperability,” said 1st Lt. Alison Bowman, a pilot with the 203rd ARS. “Through pre- and post-mission briefings, we are exchanging air refueling tactics, techniques and procedures to enhance operational efficiency.”
For the 203rd ARS, this mission extended beyond technical proficiency — it was an engagement in adaptability and cross-cultural collaboration in a region with unique airspace and logistical challenges.
“Air refueling engagements in this region gives us a great opportunity to fine-tune our skills while working closely with our partners in a dynamic environment,” said Tech. Sgt. Angelica Amian, 203rd ARS inflight refueler. “By staying in constant communication and giving each other real-time feedback, we were able to work together more smoothly. It’s all about building that trust and understanding so we can operate effectively as a team.”
As the engagement progressed, both air forces refined their air domain awareness capabilities, reinforcing their commitment to regional stability.
“This opportunity not only strengthens our operational readiness but also ensures we have the capabilities to secure our territorial integrity,” said Lt. Col. Ripdho Utomo, IDAF exercise planner. “We want to thank the Hawaii Air National Guard for their support to maintain our currency and certifications. I’m looking forward to continuing this cooperation.”
The Hawaii National Guard and Indonesia Military Bilateral Partnership was established in 2006, supporting USINDOPACOM’s goal of enhancing defense relations and strengthening Indonesia’s military capabilities.
Future training will build on the progress achieved during this exercise, advancing U.S.-Indonesia defense cooperation.