Japan deploys three helicopters to assist Indonesia with Kalimantan forest fires

Japan is deploying three CH-47 helicopters from the Japan Self-Defense Forces (JSDF) to assist Indonesia in combating severe forest and land fires in Kalimantan. The Japanese Ministry of Defense confirmed that this assistance is being provided at the request of the Indonesian government as part of international disaster relief efforts.

The helicopters will be transported to Indonesia via the vessel JS Kunisaki once all preparations are finalized. While the specific deployment locations and the exact arrival dates for the aircraft have not yet been disclosed, the mission aims to support firefighting operations in the region.

This announcement follows a trilateral meeting on August 26, 2026, between the defense ministers of Indonesia, Japan, and Australia. During that meeting, officials discussed Indo-Pacific security and expressed a commitment to regional stability and enhanced defense cooperation.