JAKARTA, Sept 26 — The Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) and the Indonesian Air Force (TNI AU) have conducted a simulated search and rescue (SAR) operation during the Elang Malindo XXIX/24 exercise in Pontianak, West Kalimantan, yesterday.
Initiated in response to a simulated flash flood scenario, the operation aims to enhance military cooperation and technical capabilities between the two forces, as well as improve crisis response coordination.
TNI AU deployed a CN-235 aircraft for search missions, while RMAF’s EC-725 AP and TNI AU’s NAS-332 Super Puma helicopters facilitated rescues using various techniques, according to a statement issued by TNI AU.
The ongoing Exercise Elang Malindo, taking place from Tuesday (September 24) to tomorrow, commenced with familiarisation flights conducted by TUDM and TNI AU helicopters in the training area on the first day.
Colonel Mohmad Safhree Sadek is leading the RMAF delegation, which arrived on Monday (September 23), as co-exercise director, while Colonel Asep Wahyu Wijaya from TNI AU serves as the exercise director.
During the opening ceremony at the Air Wing 7 Command Supadio Air Base on Tuesday, Asep expressed confidence that the exercise would strengthen friendships and enhance the operational readiness of both forces.
“Let us see this exercise as a chance to enhance cooperation between our air forces. While it is a training event, we must approach it with seriousness,” he said.
Safhree emphasised the importance of prioritising safety throughout the activities to prevent any accidents that could impact the participants.
Participants also strengthened their relationships through enjoyable sporting activities, including volleyball matches, during their free time.
— Bernama
