Indonesian Air Force sharpens personnel capabilities in SAR operations

The Indonesian Air Force (TNI AU) is honing the capabilities of its personnel in the field of evacuation and Search and Rescue (SAR) to ensure constant readiness for non-war military operations (OMSP). These SAR skills were sharpened during the Sikatan Daya 2026 exercise held at Iswahjudi Air Base, Madiun, on Tuesday (2/6).

According to an official TNI AU press release issued on Thursday, the SAR training involved simulating the rescue of victims from an aircraft accident. I Nyoman stated that personnel, including the crew of the EC-120 SAR helicopter, prepared military hardware and supporting SAR equipment before proceeding to the simulated crash site.

Once all equipment was prepared, the TNI AU helicopter flew directly to the location. Upon arrival, the team immediately evacuated the simulated victims. “The helicopter then transported the victims back to Iswable Iswahjudi, after which they were taken by ambulance to the dr. Efram Harsana Air Force Hospital (RSAU) for further medical treatment,” he said.

Through this exercise, I Nyoman expressed hope that TNI AU personnel could further minimise errors when executing evacuation missions during non-war military operations. “This training is expected to serve as a means to measure the effectiveness of operational procedures, personnel readiness, and synergy between supporting elements to increase professionalism and responsiveness in the execution of SAR missions,” he added.