Japanese Helicopters Arrive in West Kalimantan to Assist in Forest Fire Suppression for Three Weeks

The National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) has reported that three Japanese heavy-lift Chinook helicopters have arrived in West Kalimantan to assist Indonesia in managing forest and land fires (karhutla).

The Acting Head of the BNPB Data, Information, and Disaster Communication Centre, Berton SP Panjaitan, stated that the Japanese aid arrived in the country via the JS Kunisaki fleet at Kijing Port, Mempawah, West Kalimantan, on Thursday, 10 September 2026.

“We can currently update that the Japanese fleet and personnel, specifically the vessel JS Kunisaki, docked at Kijing Port, Mempawah, West Kalimantan, on Thursday, 10 September 2026, carrying three units of Chinook heavy-lift helicopters,” Berton said during a press conference on Thursday.

According to Berton, the Japanese ship and helicopters arrived in Indonesia alongside approximately 180 to 300 personnel who will support the implementation of forest and land fire management operations in Indonesia.

Berton noted that operational preparations have been finalised, including the execution of helicopter flight tests. Currently, these flight tests are being conducted at Supadio Airport in Pontianak, West Kalimantan.

“The operational plan has been properly matured, and flight testing is currently underway at Supadio Airport, Pontianak,” he said.

Berton explained that the three Chinook helicopters will be utilised to assist in extinguishing forest fires from the air using the water bombing method. The suppression operations are planned to commence on Friday (11/9) or Saturday (12/9).

“The schedule for suppression operations via aerial water bombing is planned to begin on the 11th or 12th of September. We will see the outcome after they complete their trials,” he explained.

According to Berton, there is a period of approximately one to two days to conduct discussions and determine the priority locations for fire suppression. The determination of these locations will take place once the testing and operational coordination processes are complete.

The Japanese helicopter and personnel assistance is scheduled to carry out its mission for 21 days. This operation is expected to strengthen the forest fire suppression efforts currently being conducted by joint teams on the ground.

“They will assist us for 21 days, supporting all the firefighting teams currently in the field,” Berton concluded.