Indonesian state-owned company PT Dirgantara Indonesia (PTDI, Indonesia Aerospace) ordered two AS365 N3+Dauphin helicopters from Airbus, the company said on June 15.
The helicopters are meant to boost the search and rescue (SAR) capabilities of Indonesia. Airbus is expected to deliver the Dauphins within one year.
Upon delivery, the helicopters will be reassembled, tested, qualified, and completed by PTDI, Airbus said. The Dauphins will also be customized by PTDI with mission equipment including hoists, flotation systems, direction finder, an electronic optical system, and casualty evacuation devices.
“We are very familiar with the Dauphin platform and are confident that with the installation of dedicated SAR equipment, we will offer the right solution to the Indonesian Government for its SAR demands,” Budi Santoso, PTDI president director, said during the signing ceremony at the Paris Airshow.
“PTDI knows the needs of Indonesia and has been instrumental in securing the right assets and equipment for the country’s defense. This acquisition is another good example,” Fabrice Rochereau, vice president of South East Asia & Pacific Sales and Customer Relations at Airbus Helicopters, added.
PTDI and Airbus have worked together for over 40 years, manufacturing and delivering over 130 helicopters.
Indonesia currently has five Dauphin helicopters operating for the police and Basarnas (Indonesian National Search and Rescue Agency) for law enforcements and SAR, respectively.