Jakarta – Indonesia Air Force Chief, Marshal Subandrio said that radar unit in Saumlaki, South East Maluku, will start to operate in 2010, to maximize the security of air territory in Eastern Indonesia.  "For east area we build three more radars, including in Saumlaki to be operated in 2010," said Subandrio, when confirmed by ANTARA in Jakarta, Tuesday, regarding air defence in Eastern Indonesia.

Besides Saumlaki, radar facility will also be constructed in Merauke and Timika (Papua). The construction phase of the three radars will be done within 2010 to 2012.  In 2010, said Subandrio, it will be constructed in Saumlaki.  "All infrastructures and supporting facilities have been at finishing stage, and we just wait for the radar to come, set-up, test on its function, and operate it,” he said.

(Source: www.dephan.go.id, 06 March 2009)