Indonesian and Australian Air Force personnel participated in Exercise RAJAWALI AUSINDO at RAAF Base Darwin from December 1 to 6 2011.
The exercise involved C-130 Hercules transport aircraft and crews from both countries undertaking cargo airdrop missions.
Commander Air Lift Group, Air Commodore Gary Martin, said Indonesia and Australia benefited from participation in such exercises.
“Exercise RAJAWALI AUSINDO was an important exercise for fostering the relationship between Australian and Indonesian Air Force personnel.
"These strong ties are evident when both countries work together in airlift missions, such as during humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations.
“This was highlighted during Operation PADANG ASSIST in South Sumatra in 2009, and Operation Sumatra Assist I & II in 2004-2005.
"It is also an opportunity for Air Forces to gain a better understanding of each other’s capability, safety practices, and methods of operation.
“Air lift is a critical capability within this region, as the respective experiences of Indonesia and Australia demonstrate.
"Both of our Air Forces are versed in flying to remote runways with vital loads, whether they are across the Indonesian archipelago or to remote Australian airfields.”
“The C-130 forms an important part of both our respective defence forces, for its ability to carry useful loads of cargo in to short, semi- prepared airstrips and deliver that cargo with the minimum of support infrastructure.
“Australia has flown different models of the C-130 since 1958, and Indonesia since 1960, so between our two countries there is a great body of experience.”
Prime Minister Gillard announced recently that Australia has offered to gift up to four surplus C-130H aircraft to Indonesia.