Jakarta. Defense Minister Prabowo Subianto led a commissioning ceremony on Tuesday for five newly acquired military transport aircraft, manufactured locally, to be deployed in service with the Air Force.

The turboprop-powered NC212i aircraft, produced by Bandung-based aerospace industry Dirgantara Indonesia under Spain’s CASA license, are designated for deployment at the 4th Air Squadron in Malang, East Java.

The government's procurement includes a total order of nine NC212i aircraft from Dirgantara, allocated for the Abdulrachman Saleh Air Force Base in Malang.

Prabowo underlined the importance of strengthening the domestic defense industry to reduce reliance on external sources during the commissioning ceremony at Halim Perdanakusuma Airport in East Jakarta.

“Our aspiration is for the continued growth of our defense industry so that one day, we will have the capacity to manufacture our own jet fighters,” said Prabowo, who is the early frontrunner in the upcoming February 14 presidential election.

“Our nation boasts abundant resources and it requires robust defense capabilities to safeguard our treasures,” he added.

The NC-212i aircraft, designed for both civil and military operations, can accommodate up to 28 passengers and carry up to 3 tons of cargo. It features a rear ramp door for efficient loading and unloading, according to a statement from the Defense Ministry.

The aircraft serves multiple purposes, functioning as an ambulance aircraft, paratrooper carrier, or search and rescue plane.

Equipped with digital avionics, the NC-212 is capable of takeoff and landing on unpaved runways, enhancing its operational flexibility.