US wants Indonesia as Hercules MRO hub; Kertajati Airport chosen

The United States has proposed that Indonesia become a maintenance and repair (MRO) hub for its Hercules aircraft in Asia, a move that Indonesia's government has decided to facilitate at Kertajati Airport in Majalengka, West Java.

This strategic decision aims to leverage the underutilized Kertajati Airport, which has not yet reached its full potential for civilian flights. Governor of the Indonesian National Resilience Institute (Lemhannas), Tubagus Ace Hasan Syadzily, emphasized the economic benefits of this agreement. He stated that establishing an MRO facility for Hercules aircraft represents a significant investment entrusted to Indonesia.

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The principle is this: for us, if it is part of an investment, of course, we must give it to whomever.

"The principle is this: for us, if it is part of an investment, of course, we must give it to whomever," Ace said, highlighting the potential positive impact. He views the decision as a move that brings benefits to Indonesia, potentially strengthening the nation's defense through the maintenance of transport aircraft like the Hercules.

Ace encouraged a positive outlook on the decision, suggesting it could also stimulate the Indonesian economy. The initiative is seen not only as a boost to defense capabilities but also as an economic opportunity, utilizing existing infrastructure to foster industrial and technological growth within the region.

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So we hope this can also be part of strengthening our defense through defense equipment, one of which is through transport aircraft like Hercules. So maybe the impact can also be felt for our economy.