Semarang, C Java (ANTARA News) - Eight Apache helicopters will complete the main equipment of the defense system of Squadron 11/Assault in Semarang, Central Java, commander of the army`s aviation center, Major General Besar Harto Karyawan, said here on Thursday.

"Three of them had already arrived by the end of December 2017, while the rest will soon be delivered," he said when visiting to the headquarters of the squadron located at Ahmad Yani army main airbase.

He stated that the addition of the US-made combat choppers was part of the rejuvenation efforts being made, while referring also to the addition of Russian-made helicopters MI 35 and MI 17 to Squadron 32/Assault.

Squadron 11 has so far operated Bell 522, which is also made in the US.

Karyawan noted that besides Apaches, the squadron will also be strengthened by CN 295 and 12 Fennec helicopters.

He added that the Fennec helicopters will replace Bolco type helicopters, which are considered too old.

During the visit, the commander took an opportunity to fly the MI 35 around Semarang, which is the capital of Central Java, and its surroundings.

Reported by I.C. Senjaya
(H-YH/INE)
EDITED BY INE/B003

Reporter: antara
Editor: Heru Purwanto
Copyright © ANTARA 2018