The air and aquatic police found its origin in the establishment of the water police as part of the National Police on 1 December 1950. Guarding the vast aquatic bodies surrounding the islands was the main task. When the two first water police units were formed, on 16 January 1953, it soon became apparent that aerial assets would be needed in support.  The aircraft and helicopters are centered at Pondok Cabe in the Komplek Polisi Udara    (air police complex) there. From this hub, the aerial assets are detached to regional police directorates.