10 raider battalions to be set up

GILIMANUK, Bali: The Army is planning to set up 10 more raider battalions across the country in the near future to complement 80 others already in place.

Army deputy commander Lt. Gen. Darsono MSc. said in Gilimanuk, Bali on Tuesday that the new airborne battalions would help enhance the Army's fighting ability.

"We want the fighting ability of troops to increase evenly across the country," Darsono was quoted by Antara as saying.

He did not reveal any specific timetable on the establishment of the raider battalions.

The two-star general also suggested that the plan would require a large budget but again did not provide specifics.

The new raider battalions will be attached to the Army's 12 military commands across the country. --Antara