In a move that signals a significant shift in its naval ambitions, the Indonesian Navy (TNI AL) is actively exploring the acquisition of an aircraft carrier. This development comes as the TNI AL undertakes a substantial modernisation of its fleet.
Indonesian Navy Information Service, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
The rationale behind considering an aircraft carrier, according to Chief of Staff of the Indonesian Navy, Admiral Muhammad Ali, is primarily for “OMSP (operasi militer selain perang)” or non-combat military operations. These operations encompass a wide range of non-traditional security challenges, including humanitarian assistance, disaster relief, and maritime security operations. An aircraft carrier would significantly enhance the navy’s capacity to respond to these diverse scenarios, providing a mobile airbase and command and control platform. Ali made the revelation during a press conference before attending the TNI AL Leadership Meeting at the TNI AL Headquarters, Cilangkap, East Jakarta, Feb. 6th.
This potential acquisition is taking place amid a broader push to modernise the TNI AL. The navy has recently secured a number of key procurements to bolster its capabilities. Most notable is the purchase of two PPA (Pattugliatore Polivalente d’Altura – Multipurpose Offshore Patrol Vessel) from Italy, a deal worth 1.18 billion euros. While officially classified as Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPV), these units are considered to be of a frigate class. Constructed by Fincantieri, these 143-meter vessels are notable for their high degree of flexibility and technological sophistication. With a speed exceeding 32 knots and a crew of 170, they are equipped with a combined diesel and gas turbine engine, and boast the capacity to supply drinking water to land. Fincantieri will act as the prime contractor, also coordinating with other industrial partners, such as Leonardo, for the customisation of the ships’ combat systems. The agreement came following the Italian Navy’s Maritime Campaign in the Far East by PPA Francesco Morosini (P431) which included a stop in Indonesia in July 2023.
Further strengthening the TNI AL is the construction of two “Merah Putih” frigates. These are based on the Babcock Arrowhead 140 design. Babcock has secured a design license agreement with PT PAL Indonesia, enabling the construction of these frigates in Indonesia, tailored to meet the specific needs of the Indonesian Navy. The agreement was signed at the Defence and Security Equipment International (DSEI) 2021 event in London, on board HMS Argyll. In addition to this, the TNI AL has also launched two Raja Haji Fisabilillah-class offshore patrol vessels from Lampung and secured a number of KCR (missile boat) from Turkey. The Indonesian Navy is also set to receive two patrol vessels from Japan as a grant, further expanding its operational capacity.
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