PTDI EADS To Improve Aircraft Production In Indonesia

Jakarta, June 5 (Antara) - Indonesian Aviation Company (PTDI) along with European Aeronautic Defense and Space Company (EADS) agreed to conduct cooperation in improving helicopter and aircraft production as well as the spare parts production. "PTDI and EADS agreed to improve aircraft and helicopter production to fulfill the local demand and international market," said Indonesian State Enterprise Minister Dahlan Iskan after welcoming EADS CEO Thomas Enders, here, Tuesday. The EADS is a well-known aircraft manufacturer being supported by several aircraft industries such as Airbus, Eurocopter and Eurofighter. Dahlan said Indonesia only operates few number of helicopters compared to Brazil. The minister said Airbus is to enhance cooperation on helicopter production. "There are at least 2,000 units of helicopters operating in Brazil, while in Indonesia only 200 units," Dahlan said. Dahlan, who was accompanied by Managing Director of PTDI Budi Santoso, said the EADS will intensify cooperation with the PTDI on increasing the production of aircraft. "Helicopter market in Indonesia still has wide potential as the country is operating a small number of helicopters," Dahlan said. Airbus, said Dahlan, will act as a guarantor for the financing of helicopter development based on the agreement. The Minister has assigned PTDI to follow up the agreement, including the targeted production capacity. Meanwhile, Santoso said Indonesia will be an important partner for EADS in developing the aviation business and industry. "EADS has considered PTDI as a strategic and significant partner on aircraft manufacture industry," Santoso said. Previously, PTDI has delivered at least four units of CN-235 maritime patrol aircraft for the South Korean Coast Guard (KCG) in 2012. The PTDI has also established cooperation with South Korea in developing the Korean Fighter Xperiment/Indonesian Fighter Xperiment (KFX/IFX) jet fighter which was delayed until September 2014.