Airbus Helicopters has handed over the first Fennec multipurpose military helicopter to the Indonesian Army.
The Indonesian Defence Ministry ordered a total of 12 Fennec helicopters from Eurocopter earlier this year, as reported by AINonline.
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Comprising six single-engine and six twin-engine versions, the helicopters are scheduled to form an Indonesian Army light-attack squadron in the future.
As part of a strategic industrial agreement signed with Airbus Helicopters, PT Dirgantara Indonesia (PTDI) will install the mission equipment, including machine guns and rocket launchers, on the fleet at its in-country facilities in Bandung.
PT Dirgantara Indonesia president Budi Santoso said: "These deliveries are aligned with our responsibilities from the Indonesian Government to develop defence systems locally to augment the country’s defence capabilities."
Airbus Helicopters South East Asia and Pacific Region head Philippe Monteux said: "Indonesia’s acquisition of the Fennec demonstrates this helicopter family’s suitability for operations in a full range of conditions, providing a highly manoeuvrable and agile platform with low detectability."
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By GlobalDataA militarised version of Airbus’ proven Ecureuil rotorcraft family, the Fennec helicopter is designed to perform combat, combat support and tracking, as well as escort and training duties around the world, including Asia.
Powered by a single or twin Turbomeca Arriel 2B turboshaft engines, it combines powerful light-attack capabilities with highly cost-effective airframe and mission system solutions.
The helicopter initially entered service in 1990 and several variants are also operated by the armies of Australia, Denmark, France, Singapore, the UAE, as well as the Brazilian Army and Air Force.
The remaining 11 helicopters under the contract are scheduled to be supplied in 2016.
Image: Airbus will supply 12 Fennec multi-purpose helicopters to the Indonesian Army. Photo: © Hilkianus Silitonga.
