"For the time being, we will use the strategic planning budget to buy three helicopters for the VVIP Air Squadron," Supriatna remarked at a gathering with mass media at the Wisma Angkasa building in South Jakarta on Tuesday night.
He noted that the plan to buy the three AW101 modern and sophisticated helicopters was purely the result of a study conducted by the VVIP Air Squadron and was further evaluated by the Military (TNI) Headquarters.
"This is the result of our study, and after a thorough assessment, I decided to buy the VVIP helicopters," the Air Force chief of staff affirmed.
Supriatna added that depending on the budget, the helicopters will include security features such as bulletproof body, anti-jamming devices, and anti-missile systems.
He emphasized that the purchase of the VVIP helicopters for the president, vice president, state officials, and guests of the country will prioritize safety and comfort.
He expressed hope that the first AW101 helicopter would arrive before April 9, 2016.(*)
Editor: Heru Purwanto
Copyright © ANTARA 2015
