He made the statement while presiding over the handover ceremony of the first A400M unit from Airbus at Halim Perdanakusuma Air Base here on Monday.
The aircraft, the largest transport plane in the Indonesian Air Force (TNI AU) fleet, will be assigned to the 31st Squadron.
“Alhamdulillah, important defense equipment has begun to arrive. I believe the A400M will increase our capabilities,” Prabowo said.
The A400M measures 45.1 meters in length, 42.2 meters in wingspan, and 14.7 meters in height. It can carry up to 37 tons of cargo or 116 personnel.
Powered by four Europrop TP400-D6 turboprop engines, the aircraft can reach a maximum speed of 780 kilometers per hour and has a flight range of up to 8,900 kilometers.
President Prabowo instructed that the A400M be equipped with an air ambulance module and tools to help combat forest fires. He emphasized that the military plays a vital role not only in national defense but also in disaster response, crisis management, and addressing public needs.
As a result, all branches of the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) are being developed to become more effective, not only to protect national territory but also to support national development.
“We are now developing all branches of the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) to be more effective, not only to defend our territory but also to secure and support national development,” he said.
Prabowo highlighted that Indonesia’s vast geography - comprising thousands of islands and an area comparable in size to the European continent - makes air power essential for supporting national strategic interests.
He also noted that Indonesia currently operates two Airbus A400M aircraft, with an option to acquire four more. Negotiations for the additional units are ongoing.
“We already have two units in operation and an option for four more. We may negotiate to sign for another four units, for the time being,” Prabowo stated, adding that the aircraft can also serve as an air tanker depending on the operational needs of the TNI.
Related news: President Prabowo orders air ambulance upgrade for A400M aircraft
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Translator: Fathur Rochman, Kuntum Khaira Riswan
Editor: Primayanti
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