Indonesia Acquires First Aircraft Carrier for Disaster Relief and Military Upgrade

Indonesia has received its first aircraft carrier, a significant step in its ongoing military upgrade program. The vessel, a former Italian Navy ship to be renamed KRI Sriwijaya, is intended to bolster the nation's capacity for humanitarian aid operations during disasters across its vast archipelago.

The 41-year-old former Italian Navy vessel, Giuseppe Garibaldi, arrived at Tanjung Priok seaport in North Jakarta on Friday, where it was welcomed with a military ceremony. Indonesian Navy Chief of Staff Muhammad Ali stated that the ship's primary purpose is disaster management.

Highlights

• Indonesia has taken delivery of its first aircraft carrier, the former Italian Navy vessel Giuseppe Garibaldi.
• The ship will be renamed KRI Sriwijaya, honoring the historic Srivijaya maritime empire.
• Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto emphasized the vessel's role in disaster relief, facilitating the rapid deployment of logistics via helicopters to remote areas.
• Navy officials confirmed the ship can carry up to 18 helicopters and accommodate up to 830 personnel.
• This acquisition is part of Indonesia's broader push to upgrade its military assets and enhance defense cooperation with other nations.

Details

The 41-year-old former Italian Navy ship, Giuseppe Garibaldi, sailed from Italy, passing through Colombo and the Malacca Strait before reaching Indonesia. Navy Chief of Staff Ali highlighted the country's need for a platform capable of carrying numerous helicopters to deliver logistics swiftly to remote disaster-stricken areas. However, he also noted that the ship could be deployed for combat missions if necessary.

Italy agreed to transfer the carrier, which was retired in 2014, to Indonesia in March. This move aims to strengthen defense engagement between the two countries. For Italy, gifting the carrier also saves the cost of decommissioning the vessel. The Indonesian Navy expects the ship to remain operational for another 15 to 20 years.

Why it matters

This acquisition marks a crucial development in Indonesia's strategy to enhance its defense capabilities and strengthen its regional role. Under President Prabowo Subianto, Indonesia has made significant strides in modernizing its military infrastructure. These efforts include an $8.1 billion deal in 2022 to purchase French-made Rafale fighter jets and new defense agreements with the United States and Australia. The aircraft carrier will significantly boost the country's humanitarian response capacity while also reinforcing its strategic military flexibility.