TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Navigation observer Gerry Soejatman says Indonesian Air Force’s decision to purchase a new British-Italian made Agusta Westland AW-101 helicopter is exaggerated. Besides expensive, Indonesia do not have special technicians that are capable to run the chopper's maintenance.

“The question is, is it really necessary to own an expensive helicopter? Even the fake one cost $45 million,” Gerry told Tempo on Wednesday, November 25.

Special technicians will be required if the helicopter is intended to be used by Jokowi to conduct impromptu visits. Its operational cost will also be expensive.

Previously, Head of Air Force Information Service First Marshall Dwi Badarmanto said the helicopter to be shipped to Indonesia next year would be used to transport VVIP guests, including the Presidents and Vice Presidents. The purchasing of the chopper is included in the Renstra Air Force year 2014-19.

AW-101 will replace the French Airbus-made Super Puma, which is currently used to support the mobility of the President. Dwi claimed that the chopper has its own advantages including the three propellers which makes it faster.

PT Dirgantara Indonesia is now capable of manufacturing a Cougar helicopter, the Super Puma next generation, which cost roughly around $30 million.

DANANG FIRMANTO