Indonesia to deploy 5 F-16s to Natuna island in South China Sea

In an interview with Bloomberg, Indonesia’s Defense Minister Ryamizard Ryacudu said five F-16s will be deployed to Natuna island in South China Sea to safeguard the country’s interest.

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Photo: TNI AU

The move came after Indonesia clash with the Chinese coast guard last month over the detention of a Chinese fishing boat near the island.

“Natuna is a door, if the door is not guarded then thieves will come inside,” said Ryacudu.