The Russian Federation has made a formal request to Indonesia to station its long-range aircraft at Manuhua Air Base in the Biak Numfor district of Papua Province. This was reported on April 14, 2025, by the authoritative military portal Janes, citing Indonesian government sources. The potential appearance of Russian military aircraft in the region has caused serious concern in Australia, which views such a move as a security threat in the Indo-Pacific region. Manuhua Air Base is located just 1300 kilometers from Darwin, a key city in northern Australia that regularly hosts joint military exercises with the United States. Canberra is already making diplomatic efforts to prevent the implementation of Russian plans.

According to Janes, the request was made to the office of Indonesian Defence Minister Sjafri Samsuddin following his meeting with Russian Security Council Secretary Sergei Shoigu in February 2025. Russia is seeking to base aircraft from the Russian Aerospace Forces (VKS) at the base, although details of the number and types of aircraft have not been disclosed. Russian Tu-95 strategic bombers and Il-76 transports have previously requested permission to land at Manuhua, with Indonesian authorities granting permission on some occasions. The airbase, which is used by the Indonesian Air Force to host Squadron CN235 and the new 9th Air Wing, is of strategic importance due to its proximity to key shipping lanes and US bases, including Guam.

Australian officials have expressed concern about Russia's possible military build-up in the region. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said Canberra was in talks with Jakarta to seek clarification, stressing the importance of maintaining friendly relations with Indonesia. Opposition Leader Peter Dutton called the situation "troubling" and "destabilising", pointing to the need for transparency from the government. Defence Minister Richard Marles confirmed that Indonesia had not yet responded to Russia's request, and assured that Australia was actively engaging with its Indonesian counterparts at a high level. At the same time, a spokesman for the Indonesian Foreign Ministry told ABC Australia that he was not aware of such a request, adding to the uncertainty.