Russia’s alleged request to deploy military aircraft at Indonesia’s Biak Island airbase near Australia has triggered immediate denials from both Indonesian and Australian officials, raising questions about Russian ambitions in the Pacific region.

At a Glance

• Russia reportedly sought permission to deploy military aircraft at Indonesia’s Manuhua Air Force Base on Biak Island, located approximately 1,400km from Darwin, Australia
• Both Indonesian and Australian defense officials have firmly denied the reports, with the Kremlin dismissing them as “fake news”
• Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese stated his opposition to Russian military influence in the region
• The alleged request follows recent talks between Russia and Indonesia about deepening their defense partnership
• Indonesia’s constitution prohibits foreign military bases on its territory

Russia’s Reported Pacific Expansion Efforts

Defense intelligence publication Janes reported that Russia has requested permission to deploy military aircraft at Manuhua Air Force Base on Indonesia’s Biak Island. According to the reports, the Russian Aerospace Forces specifically asked to station bombers and transport aircraft at the base, which sits just 1,400 kilometers from Darwin, Australia, where U.S. Marines are stationed. The request allegedly came after a meeting between Russian and Indonesian defense officials, suggesting a potential expansion of Russian military presence in the Pacific region.

This development would represent a significant shift in regional security dynamics, particularly given U.S. efforts to contain Russian and Chinese military access to the Pacific through partnerships with Australia and Indonesia. The U.S. has been upgrading an Australian air base to host American B-52 bombers and is assisting Australia with nuclear-powered submarines, highlighting the strategic importance of the area. There is precedent for Russian presence at the base, with previous visits by Russian military aircraft in 2017.

Swift Denials from Officials

Both Indonesian and Australian officials have moved quickly to dismiss the reports. Australian Defense Minister Richard Marles stated he had spoken directly with his Indonesian counterpart about the matter. Indonesian Defense Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin has categorically denied any Russian plans to operate aircraft from Indonesian territory, while the Kremlin has labeled the reports “fake news,” rejecting any suggestion of such an arrangement.

“I have spoken to my counterpart, Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin, the minister for defense, and he has said to me in the clearest possible terms, reports of the prospect of Russian aircraft operating from Indonesia are simply not true.”, said Australian Defense Minister Richard Marles.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and opposition leader Peter Dutton have both voiced opposition to any Russian military presence in the region. Albanese and Foreign Minister Penny Wong indicated they were seeking further information and clarification on the reports, underscoring Australia’s concern about potential changes to regional security arrangements. The timing of these reports during Australia’s election campaign has added a political dimension to the issue.

Indonesia’s Balancing Act

Indonesia, home to the world’s largest Muslim population, has maintained a complex balancing act in its international military relationships. The country’s constitution explicitly prohibits foreign military bases on its territory, emphasizing an independent foreign policy. Despite this, Indonesia has conducted military exercises with various global powers, including the U.S., Australia, China, and controversially, Russia in 2024. These relationships reflect Indonesia’s strategic position in Southeast Asia and its efforts to maintain autonomy amid great power competition.

In February, Indonesia and Russia pledged to strengthen defense ties following Indonesia’s admission to the BRICS bloc, an economic group that includes Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. However, analysts suggest it remains highly unlikely Indonesia would permit a Russian military base given the significant geopolitical risks and constitutional restrictions. Security experts point to the strong security ties between Indonesia and Australia as further evidence against such an arrangement.

Regional Security Implications

The rumors about Russian military access to Biak Island emerge against a backdrop of increasing strategic competition in the Indo-Pacific region. China, a quasi-ally of Russia, has recently opened a military installation in Cambodia, further complicating regional security dynamics. For Australia, a key U.S. ally and member of both the Five Eyes intelligence alliance and the Quad security dialogue, Russian military presence so close to its northern territory would represent a significant security concern.

While the current reports appear unfounded according to official statements, they highlight the ongoing tensions and strategic maneuvering in the region. The swift and coordinated response from Indonesian and Australian officials suggests both nations recognize the potential destabilizing effect of Russian military expansion in Southeast Asia and the importance of maintaining existing security arrangements in an increasingly contested region.