The key facts
- The exercises took place on a three-kilometer section of the Pasuruan–Probolinggo highway, 24 meters wide
- Two Embraer EMB-314 Super Tucanos and two F-16 Fighting Falcons were involved
- Toll roads are considered only as alternate runways in emergency situations; other highways have been designated for future exercises
Exercises on the East Java highway
The Indonesian Air Force (TNI AU) conducted takeoff and landing exercises on a section of the Pasuruan–Probolinggo toll road in East Java province to test its suitability as an alternate runway. The exercises were part of a combat readiness check, the state agency Antara reported on Thursday, October 22. A section of road three kilometers (1.8 miles) long and 24 meters (79 feet) wide was used.
Which aircraft took part
According to Air Force Chief of Staff Mohamad Tonny Harjono, two Embraer EMB-314 Super Tucano light attack aircraft and two F-16 Fighting Falcon fighters took off from and landed on the highway.
Goals and limitations of the exercises
Harjono explained that the exercises are aimed at testing operational readiness and the ability to use existing regional infrastructure, particularly toll roads, as alternate runways for Air Force operations. He stressed that highways would be used only in emergency situations — when active runways, airports, or air bases become unusable. According to him, public safety and the proper use of infrastructure remain priorities. He also added that several other toll roads have already been designated for future exercises.
