Indonesia to buy choppers from Russia: Embassy

JAKARTA (JP): Russia will provide Indonesia with 10 multi- purpose helicopters as part of an agreement reached by the two countries in Jakarta recently, Antara reported.

In a deal estimated at over US$12 million, the agreement will cover the purchase of two Mi-171 and eight Mi-2 helicopters, the Russian embassy said in a statement.

The Mi-171 medium helicopter is the largest version of the Mi- 8 helicopters fitted with engines that enable them to improve their maximum altitude and cope with drastic changes in weather conditions.

For their part, the veteran Mi-2 light helicopters are capable of conducting air patrols and rescue operations as well as transporting special operations units.

The 10 helicopters will be operated by the Indonesian Navy.

This is believed to be the first major purchase of arms from Russia since 1965.

Taking into account the physical geography of Indonesia as the largest archipelagic state in the world, the helicopters have been equipped with emergency water-landing systems.

The Russian manufacturing company is expected to provide training for Indonesian pilots and technical personnel on how to fly and maintain the helicopters.

Jakarta and Moscow have over the past year strengthened their military ties. Last year Indonesia purchased large quantities of Russian-made AK-101 and AK-102 assault rifles.