Semarang, C Java, (Antara) - The Indonesian Army (TNI) received eight US-made four-blade, twin-turboshaft AH-64E Apache attack helicopters in Semarang on Wednesday.
The helicopters were symbolically handed over by Defense Minister Ryamizard Ryacudu to TNI Commander's Logistics Assistant Rear Admiral Bambang Nariyono during a ceremony at the Army Air Force Base at the Ahmad Yani Airport in Semarang also attended by some high-ranking officials of the army and US Deputy Ambassador to Indonesia Erin Elizabeth McKee.
Procurement of the eight helicopters is part of the Foreign Military Sales program to advance the country's weapons defense system (alutsista).
Defense Minister Ryacudu affirmed that the AH-64E Apache was currently the most sophisticated high-tech attack helicopter.
"These eight Apache helicopters are expected to have a deterrent effect and maximize the protection of the state's sovereignty," he noted.
He then instructed the TNI to not only learn about the operation of Apache but also its maintenance techniques.
US Deputy Ambassador to Indonesia McKee revealed that the United States felt immense pride to support the modernization of Indonesia's alutsista.
"We hope that the procurement of Apache helicopters by the Indonesian Armed Forces would support the commitment of both countries to realize stability, peace, and security in the region," she stated.(*)
Reported by Rini Utami
