November 3, 2025 | 03:18 pm
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - President Prabowo Subianto announced that Indonesia’s newly acquired Airbus A400M transport aircraft will be equipped with air ambulance modules and forest fire response equipment, enhancing both the country’s military and humanitarian capabilities.
“I have ordered the immediate procurement of air ambulance modules for the A400M and instructed that it also be fitted with equipment to handle forest fires,” Prabowo said after handing over the aircraft, registered as A-4001, to the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) at Halim Perdanakusuma Airbase, Jakarta, on Monday, November 3, 2025.
The president noted that Indonesia already operates C-130 Hercules transport aircraft equipped with air ambulance containers and emphasized the importance of upgrading the A400M with similar capabilities.
Prabowo, who previously served as defense minister, said the A400M will not only strengthen Indonesia’s air military fleet but also enhance the TNI’s ability to assist civilians during disasters.
“The TNI serves as a state instrument to assist the people, particularly in times of emergency,” he said.
He added that Indonesia’s vast archipelagic geography, which is comparable in size to Europe, requires strong air capabilities.
“Air power is crucial for us. We are strengthening all branches of the TNI to be more effective, not only in safeguarding our territory but also in supporting national development,” Prabowo said.
The Airbus A400M, a multi-role military transport aircraft, arrived in Indonesia on Monday morning after a three-day flight from Seville, Spain. With a capacity of up to several dozen tons, it can carry armored vehicles, light helicopters, and other heavy cargo.
The aircraft can also operate on short and unpaved runways, making it a valuable asset for both defense operations and humanitarian missions across the Indonesian archipelago.
The delivery stems from a 2021 contract between Indonesia’s Ministry of Defense and Airbus for two A400M units configured for multirole tanker and transport functions. The agreement took effect in 2022, alongside a Letter of Intent (LoI) for the potential purchase of four additional units.
Dani Aswara contributed to the writing of this article.
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