The Indonesian Air Force (TNI AU) will buy six more Russian-made Sukhoi jet fighters until 2009, Air Force Chief of Staff Marshal Herman Prayitno said on Wednesday.

"We now only have four Sukhois consisting of two of type 27 and two of type 30. We want to buy six more Sukhois until 2009 according to our budget," Antara news agency quoted the Air Force chief as saying in Solo, Central Java province.

The six jet fighters which consist of three of type 27 and three of type 30 would be equipped with a weaponry system, he said.

Asked if the planned purchase of six more Sukhois would enable the TNI AU to safeguard the country's aerial territory, he said the current number of jet fighters was enough because the country also had Hawks, F5s and F16s.

"The addition of jet fighters will hopefully enhance the TNI AU's professionalism. In addition, we will also be able to catch up with technological advancement," he said.

Indonesia bought the first four Sukhois and two MI-35 helicopters worth 192 million U.S. dollars in 2003.

Source: Xinhua