Australian officials are investigating claims that Russia has requested permission from Indonesia to base strategic surveillance and combat aircraft in the province of Papua -- just 1,400 kilometers north of Darwin.

The move was first reported by defense journal Janes on Tuesday, which revealed that Russian Security Council Secretary, General Sergei Shoigu, made the request during a February visit to Indonesia. Shoigu reportedly discussed the matter with Indonesian Defense Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin, News.com reported

According to the report, Russia was seeking special permission to station long-range aircraft at Manuhua Air Force Base, located on the southern side of Biak island in the Biak Numfor Regency.

"In the request, no details were given regarding the number of airframes or types of aircraft that the Russian Aerospace Forces (VKS) intends to deploy at Biak Numfor," the report stated.

The base is currently home to CN235 multirole aircraft and is designated as the home for Indonesia's new 9th Air Wing, which has yet to receive its aircraft due........

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