
Indonesia’s US airspace deal risks China ties
From Asia Specific by BBC World Service
April 21, 2026 · 19 min
About this episode
The episode discusses the implications of Indonesia's potential airspace deal with the US military on its relations with China.
What would a deal with the US military mean for Indonesia’s ties to China? The proposal being considered by Indonesia would allow US military aircraft easier access to its airspace. But it has ignited debate in a country that’s long had a non-aligned foreign policy stance. We discuss this possible shift in strategy, the US military presence in the region and how a potential deal is being viewed by China. What do Indonesians think and what could be the fallout for President Prabowo Subianto? Host Mariko Oi is joined by Asia Specific’s Bill Birtles, plus Jakarta-based freelance journalist Randy Mulyanto. Asia Pacific, unpacked by those who know it best. Bringing you essential insights and conversations on the stories shaping the region - an economic powerhouse, geo-political flashpoint and the birthplace of global cultural trends. Hear Asian perspectives on international issues and in-depth analysis on news from a region that’s home to nearly 2.5 billion people. Whether it is the latest on trade between the US and China, the rise and fall of political dynasties in Thailand, Indonesia, and the Philippines, or South Korea’s K-pop inspired soft power strategy, we find out what key…
People in this episode
Host: Mariko Oi
Guests: Bill Birtles, Randy Mulyanto
Topics covered
- US military presence
- Indonesia-China relations
- foreign policy
- airspace deal
- regional geopolitics
- public opinion
Keywords
- Indonesia
- US military
- China
- airspace deal
- foreign policy
- Prabowo Subianto
- geopolitics
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: US military, China
Places: Indonesia, Singapore, Thailand, Philippines, Asia Pacific
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