Jakarta. The Indonesian Air Force has recently obtained eight cutting-edge tactical transport military helicopters to bolster its operational capabilities for both combat and humanitarian missions.

Symbolically handed over by Defense Minister Prabowo Subianto, the Airbus H225M helicopters were officially received during a ceremony held at the Antang Sendjaja Air Force Base in Bogor on Friday.

"While we are grateful for the acquisition of eight new helicopters today, it is crucial to acknowledge that these numbers fall significantly short of the actual requirements to effectively cover our extensive national territory," stated Prabowo.

Air Chief Marshal Fajar Prasetyo, the Air Force Chief of Staff, received the helicopters and commemorated their entry into service by breaking a ceremonial ceramic jug.

"We are dedicated to securing the best defense systems and weaponry while prioritizing the well-being of our soldiers," Prabowo said.

He further added, "My team at the Defense Ministry and I are tirelessly working towards improving your welfare and acquiring top-notch equipment for our military."

Capable of transporting 29 personnel and carrying up to 11,000 kilograms of cargo, the H225M helicopter marks a significant addition to the Air Force's operational fleet.