On February 11, Italian aircraft manufacturer Vulcanair Aircraft announced that it had started the production of four A-VIATOR (AP.68TP-600) twin-engine turboprop aircraft for the Indonesian Navy (TNI AL) at its facilities in Casoria (Naples), Italy.
The contract was signed in December 2023 and became effective on 29 January 2026. Besides the four aircraft, the deal also covers a range of ancillary services, including pilot and maintenance training, as well as a customised flight simulator. So far, no information has been released regarding the delivery schedule or production timeline for the four aircraft.
Vulcanair noted that the procurement is part of the Indonesian Ministry of Defence’s effort to modernize TNI AL’s aviation fleet, and that the Navy is seeking a modern yet cost-effective platform for a wide range of missions, from flight training to transport and maritime ISR.
To note, the Indonesian Navy’s aviation force is extremely small compared to the country’s vast maritime territory and airspace. Its fixed-wing fleet mostly consists of aircraft such as the CASA C-212 Aviocar, CASA/IPTN CN-235, Beechcraft King Air 350i, Beechcraft G36 Bonanza, and Piper PA-28 Archer.
About A-VIATOR
The A-VIATOR AP-68TP-600 is a high-wing, non-pressurized twin-engine turboprop aircraft that is a variant of the Vulcanair P.68 Series. Powered by two Rolls-Royce 250-B17/F turboprop engines, it has a maximum take-off weight (MTOW) of approximately 3,000 kg, a maximum landing weight of 2,850 kg, a maximum cruise speed of 396km/h (214 knots), and a maximum altitude of 25,000 feet. In addition, the aircraft has a maximum range of 1,050 NM and can operate from short, unprepared airstrips.
The aircraft can accommodate up to 11 occupants (including two pilots), depending on configuration. It can be arranged for cargo, maritime patrol, medical evacuation, passenger transport, and special mission roles. It is equipped with modern avionics suitable for instrument flight operations. The airframe is designed for durability and ease of maintenance, with an emphasis on operational flexibility and cost-effectiveness.
