Indonesia's aviation sector reached a significant milestone as the Indonesian Air Force proudly unveiled a fleet of domestically manufactured military aircraft. PT Dirgantara Indonesia (PTDI), entrusted by the Indonesia Ministry of Defense, played a crucial role in this achievement by delivering the NC212i medium STOL military transport aircraft—an achievement that marks a notable moment in Indonesia's efforts towards self-reliant defense manufacturing.
The NC212i Troop Transport, identified by the tail number AX-2127, is the second in a series of nine airplanes contracted by the Indonesian Ministry of Defense. The ceremonious takeoff, from the PTDI Hangar Delivery Center in Bandung to Skadron Udara 4 at Abdulrachman Saleh Air Base in Malang, symbolizes the culmination of meticulous engineering and production efforts. The preceding aircraft successfully reached its destination on January 26, 2021, setting the stage for subsequent deployments.
The contractual specifications reveal a versatile fleet configuration, emphasizing the adaptability of these aircraft to distinct operational needs. Among the nine airplanes, four are customized for Troop Transport capabilities, four for Rain Making purposes, and the remaining unit as a Navigation Training configuration—a true testament to the NC212i's flexibility.
Built on the legacy of the CASA C-212 Aviocar, the NC212i is a turboprop-powered Short Takeoff and Landing (STOL) medium cargo aircraft, originating from the respected Spanish aircraft manufacturer Construcciones Aeronáuticas SA (CASA). Its contemporary full glass cockpit and autopilot avionics system, coupled with a lightweight turboprop design equipped with a ramp door and spacious cabin, set benchmarks within its class. The design seamlessly caters to the requirements of both civil and military operators.
As of December 2012, a global network of 92 operators has embraced the C-212 series, boasting a total of 602 population units of NC212 aircraft worldwide. These aircraft serve diverse purposes across various aviation domains, including transport, surveillance, and search and rescue operations, aligning with the NC212's multifaceted utility.
The historical partnership between Indonesia and CASA dates back to 1975, laying the foundation for indigenous production. IPTN, the Indonesian aircraft company, secured licensing rights to locally produce the CASA C-212 in Bandung, Indonesia. This collaboration led to the construction of 95 NC-212s by 2000, meeting domestic demands and making a mark in the broader Asian market.
In a significant development in February 2013, Airbus, the successor company to CASA, entered an agreement with PTDI, the successor to IPTN, facilitating the complete transfer of C-212 production to Indonesia. This move propelled PTDI to manufacture both the NC-212-200 and the -400 upgrade variants, equipped with state-of-the-art digital avionics, autopilot systems, and redesigned cabins accommodating up to 28 passengers.
The delivery of the NC212i fleet underscores Indonesia's commitment to self-reliance in defense manufacturing, enhancing the operational capabilities of the Indonesian Air Force. PTDI's successful production and delivery stand as a testament to the nation's growing aerospace industry, marking a pivotal moment in Indonesia's defense landscape. The NC212i Troop Transport symbolizes not merely an aircraft but a symbol of Indonesia's progress in defense innovation and a step towards a self-sufficient and advanced aerospace future.
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Naval Force