The Chief of Staff of the Indonesian Army (TNI-AD) General (GEN) Mulyono said, that Indonesia is expected to unveil its new AH-64E Apache attack helicopters during a 5 October parade as part of the part of the 72th anniversary celebrations of the Indonesian National Armed Forces (Tentara Nasional Indonesia – TNI).

“I hope on that day the helicopter can be brought in physically and be displayed as part of the armys programs that should be carried out,” Mulyono stated at the Army Headquarters, Central Jakarta.

The Indonesian Army has signed a contract worth US$295.8 million to purchase eight Apache helicopters. The procurement process of the helicopters is still underway.

Eight units of the Apache AH-64E Apache, ordered from the US manufacturer Boeing, were expected to be delivered gradually between 2017 and 2018.

The upgraded specifications of the Boeing Apache AH-64E (also named Guardian) helicopter include improved digital connectivity, Joint Tactical Information Distribution System, and a more powerful T700-GE-701D machine, with face gear transmission to accommodate more power.

At that time, the total deal was included the sale of four APG-78 Longbow fire control radars, an armaments package including 120 Lockheed Martin AGM-114 Hellfire air-to-ground missiles, plus a training and crew support package.

The helicopters are expected to be used by Indonesia’s military in counterpiracy and maritime awareness roles.