Indonesia receives 8 new H225M Caracal helicopters, supporting flight simulator

One of the H225M helicopters during the hand-over ceremony to TNI-AU. Photo c/o Indonesian MOD.

The Indonesian Air Force (TNI-AU) received eight new Airbus H225M Caracal helicopters from the Indonesian Ministry of Defence (MOD) during hand-over ceremonies held on 01 December 2023 at Alang Sendjaja Air Base in Bandung, West Java.

The handover ceremony was led by Defence Minister Prabowo Subianto and were attended by officials from Badan Usaha Milik Negara (National State-Owned Enterprises) (BUMN), the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) and the TNI-AU including TNI Chief of General Staff Lieutenant General Bambang Ismawan and TNI-AU Chief of Staff Marshal Fadjar Prasetyo.

The new helicopters were locally assembled and kitted by Indonesian aircraft manufacturer PT Dirgantara Indonesia (PTDI), as part of efforts for local companies to participate in defense procurements and projects.

The helicopters will be assigned with Skadron Udara 8 and will be used for special missions including combat search and rescue (CSAR), support of special operation forces, medical evacuation, maritime surveillance and aerial fire support.

Aside from the helicopters, the Indonesian Air Force also inaugurated a new H225M Flight Simulator system at Atang Sendjaja Air Base to train and maintain high operational readiness among current and future H225M helicopter pilots.

Min. Subianto said that the MOD will fight hard to improve the capabilities of the TNI by providing the best weapon systems, equipment and maintenance, as well as improving its services and quality of life of its personnel. 

[1] Antara News

[2] Scramble Magazine