Airbase to secure Timor Gap

Airbase to secure Timor Gap

KUPANG, East Nusa Tenggara: Navy Chief Admiral Arief
Kushariadi said the planned naval airbase here would ensure the
security of the joint offshore exploration project in the oil-
rich Timor Gap.

"It is necessary to have an airbase here especially after the
signing of the joint Indonesia-Australia patrol agreement for the
Timor Gap," he was quoted by Antara as saying.

The geographic position of Kupang, the capital of East Nusa
Tenggara on Timor island, is strategic for logistics support for
the Navy's air patrol in the Timor Gap.

Kupang is being developed to become the economic growth center
for the country's eastern region.

Illegal activities are common in East Nusa Tenggara's waters
which border international waters. (swe)