Air Force acrobatics

AMBON, Maluku: Thousands of spectators flocked to Merdeka Square on Thursday to see Air Force fighters commemorate the force's 50th anniversary with airborne acrobatics.

Antara reported that a number of other activities, including parachuting, a drum band show and free rides on a Hercules plane also entertained the public.

Governor M. Akib Latuconsina and Air Force Chief of Staff Rear Marshall Sutria Tubagus attended the event.

The MK-53 Hawk fighters were produced in 1978 by British Aerospace. They were piloted by Major Bambang Sulistyo, Major Teddy K, Major Tri Budi and Capt. Hariyanto A., who have all logged an average 4,000 flying hours.

In addition, 53 paratroopers from the Air Force special force, led by Major Ucok Harahap, demonstrated their parachuting skills. (swe)