Head of the Information Office of the Fleet Command for Eastern Indonesia Marine Lieutenant Colonel Maman Sulaeman stated in Surabaya City on Monday that the latest warship of Multi-Role Light Frigate type belonging to Indonesia that joins the Indonesian Armys Maritime Task Force Konga XXIII-I/UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) has become a popular attraction among civilians and military personnel.
"During its duty in Lebanon since 2015 until now, KRI Bung Tomo 357 has always drawn the interest of students, civil authorities, and especially the military personnel from other countries, to get a first-hand glimpse of the technology owned by the KRI, which is in the ranks of the Archipelago Eskader Ship Unit of the Fleet Command for Eastern Indonesia," he noted.
He pointed out that four military officers and 19 non-commissioned/private officers of the Irish and Finnish navies, who were part of the Irishfin Battalion, had recently visited KRI Bung Tomo on the weekend.
"During their visit, they were welcomed by the Maritime Task Force Commander of the Indonesian National Army Konga XXIII-I/UNIFIL Marine Colonel Heri Triwibowo on the helicopter deck of KRI Bung Tomo 357," he stated.
Heri, who was also commander of the KRI Bung Tomo, noted in a press release received by Antara in Surabaya City on Monday that the Irish and Finnish army personnel were given a warm welcome. He expressed hope that their visit would strengthen the sound relations among contingents who take part in the UNIFIL, particularly between the Indonesian army and the Irish and Finnish armed forces.
On the occasion, Triwibowo gave a brief description of the KRI Bung Tomo 357 as well as its work in peacekeeping missions in the Mediterranean Sea off the coast of Lebanon.
In addition to peacekeeping, the soldiers of KRI Bung Tomo 357 have also carried out diplomatic missions through traditional Indonesian art and cultural performances during important events in Lebanon.
Irishfin Battalion Commander Lieutenant Colonel Stephen Howard lauded the technological advancements in KRI Bung Tomo 357, including the performance of Indonesian soldiers, which could serve as an example for his countrys Navy.
"I, along with troops, feel honored and fortunate to be able to visit the ship. You are the professional crew, and KRI Bung Tomo-357 is a formidable warship. I am very grateful for this friendly welcome," he added.(*)
Editor: Heru Purwanto
Copyright © ANTARA 2017
