Inp.polri.go.id - Jayapura.  The Indonesian Air Force has committed to securing 11 remote airstrips in Papua that were previously shuttered due to insurgent violence. 

Brigadier General Mokhamad Mukhson, the Commander of the Silas Papare Airbase, announced on Monday (23/2/2026) that the Kopasgat task force will provide security guarantees to resume flight operations following a deadly attack on a Smart Air aircraft in Boven Digoel earlier this month.

"We are prepared to safeguard these airfields to ensure operational normalcy and provide essential services to the community," Commander Mukhson said, as reported by antaranews.com.

The Ministry of Transportation had suspended services at sites including Beoga and Korowai after an armed group led by Elkius Kobak killed a pilot and co-pilot on 12 February 2026. 

The security recommendation aimed to restore vital logistics and mobility for residents in isolated districts such as Boven Digoel and Puncak. Military soldiers will be permanently stationed at these critical hubs to overcome threats from armed groups and protect civilian aviation assets from further incursions.

(mg/inp/pr/rs)