TIMES SINGAPORE, JAKARTA – Prabowo Subianto, the Secretary of Defense (Secdef) of Indonesia proudly delivered CN235-220 MPA aircraft to the Senegal Airforce. This was such a memorable moment for Indonesia for given such trust by Senegal.

The aircraft was presented at Fixed Wing Hanggar of PT Dirgantara Indonesia (PTDI) Bandung on Thursday (18/3/2021). The Chief of Air Force of Senegal Papa Souleymane SARR was also joining the moment.

The Secretary of Defense, Prabowo Subianto. (Photo: Doc. of Secdef)

During his speech, Prabowo said that Indonesia should have proud to what they achieve for now. This aircraft was the third aircraft ordered by Senegal. It shows that the country has trust Indonesia for their aircraft production.

"PT DI is Indonesian pride. PT DI is Indonesian hope. We do really need this aerospace technology for the industry. It's the future industry, the most complicated and sophisticated technology ever," Prabowo said.

In addition, he also said that back then PT DI had reached its glory in 90's. But he politic has made this industry step down and face lots of obstacles. However, it has to be such an achievement for it still remain strong and stand still during the storm.

The Ministry of Defense has committed to elevate PT DI to gain back its glory. "The President has ordered us to support PT DI and the artillery industry to steal a spot at least in South East Asia," Prabowo added. 

The Secretary of Defense, Prabowo Subianto and Chief of Air Force of Senegal BG Papa Souleymane SARR, along with the Director of PT DI Elfien Goentoro, and the Director of PT NTP Tarmizi Kemal Fasya Lubis. (Photo: Doc. of Secdef)

In another side, the Chief of Air Force of Senegal Papa Souleymane SARR explained that Senegal has trusted Indonesia for their aircraft production. They have used it for almost 10 years.

Eith the good condition and quality the aircraft had up until now, they have trust Infonesia for their 3rd aircraft. This aircraft was meant to use as patrol aircraft in the country.

"We hope that we will get the same nice experience with this aircraftjust like what we had with the previous two. Souleymane said.

Before this, the relationship between Senegal and Indonesia has been well maintained. CN235-220 patrol aircraft which was delivered by Secdef Prabowo Subianto will strenghten between the two countries. (*)