SA-330 Puma Helicopter Retired After 45 Years, Honored as Monument

KBRN, Bogor: After more than 45 years of loyal service protecting Indonesia’s skies, the SA-330 Puma helicopter has officially retired from the Indonesian Air Force and now stands immortalized as a monument in downtown Cibinong, West Java.

The monument was inaugurated by TNI Commander Gen. Agus Subiyanto on Friday, July 25, 2025, at Simpang Empat Kandang Roda, serving as a lasting tribute to the aircraft’s long-standing role in national defense and humanitarian missions.

Throughout its operational career, the SA-330 Puma played an indispensable role in military operations, humanitarian relief efforts, and key national projects, including support for the construction of Bogor’s iconic Kujang Monument.

This legacy was honored during the dedication ceremony, which featured a signing of the commemorative inscription at the Regent’s Hall and a ribbon-cutting at the monument site.

“As part of our tradition, this monument serves as a final salute to a trusted asset that dutifully supported the nation,” said Gen. Agus.

The Puma’s retirement aligns with the modernization of Indonesia’s aerial fleet, and the aircraft has been succeeded by the more advanced NAS-332 Super Puma and EC-725 Caracal helicopters.

Agus hopes that the monument will instill pride and patriotism in younger generations, reminding them that the SA-330 Puma was more than just military hardware, it was a silent witness to selfless service and aerial sovereignty. ***

Translator: Naura Sofia

Editor: Lasti Martina