Bandung, W. Java (ANTARA) – State-owned aircraft maker PT Dirgantara Indonesia (PTDI) has delivered its eighth NC212i aircraft to the Defense Ministry, advancing efforts to modernize the Indonesian Air Force’s tactical fleet.The aircraft, tail number AX-2135, departed PTDI’s Bandung Delivery Center on Thursday, July 30, on a ferry flight to Abdulrachman Saleh Air Force Base in Malang, East Java.“This is part of our commitment to delivering the Defense Ministry’s order,” PTDI Production Director Dena Hendriana said during a send-off ceremony in Bandung.“This is the eighth of nine units ordered. God willing, this will strengthen the Air Force and help defend Indonesia’s sovereignty,” he added.The NC212i features upgraded technology, including German-made MT-Propeller MTV-27 propeller systems paired with Honeywell TPE331 engines.Certified by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency, the propulsion system reduces vibration and noise, improves high-altitude single-engine stability and enables smoother engine starts.The aircraft can support various missions, including troop transport, weather modification through cloud seeding and aerial mapping.The aircraft passed its final Flight Acceptance Certificate testing on July 9, 2026.Pilot in Command Lieutenant Colonel Andika Ardyagana, who flew the ferry flight with co-pilot Captain Irvan Fajar, confirmed the aircraft’s operational readiness after extensive evaluation.“We conducted development testing, and the aircraft has reached its maximum capacity,” Andika said, adding that it would strengthen the Air Force’s ability to safeguard Indonesia’s sovereignty.With eight aircraft delivered, PTDI is entering the final phase of the procurement contract. The ninth and final NC212i is scheduled for completion and delivery in October 2027.