Will Sell Eight Apache Helicopters Equipped With Longbow Radars

U.S. Defense Sectary Chuck Hegel has announced an agreement with the government of Indonesia for the sale of eight Apache AH-64E attack helicopters equipped with Longbow radars during a news conference last week with Indonesian Defense Minister Purnomo Yusgiantoro. The value of the contract is about $500 million.

“Providing Indonesia these world-class helicopters is an example of our commitment to help build Indonesia’s military capability,” Hagel said.

The American Forces Press Service reports that the U.S. military will also provide training for Indonesian pilots, developing tactics, procedures, and techniques for use of the aircraft in Southeast Asia, according to an unnamed senior defense official, who said “The United States is committed to working with Southeast Asian nations to grow defense capabilities and deepen military-to-military cooperation with all of our partners."

Hagel also said during the news conference that the U.S. and Indonesia have agreed to a mutual support and cooperation pact that will help in locating and recovery of U.S. military personnel missing from WWII.

(Apache helicopters pictured in file photo)

FMI: www.defense.gov