In February, we reported that the Indonesian Navy (TNI AL) was considering acquiring an aircraft carrier to modernize its fleet. Admiral Muhammad Ali, Chief of Staff of the Indonesian Navy, stated that the rationale behind this potential acquisition is primarily for non-combat military operations (OMSP), including humanitarian assistance, disaster relief, and maritime security operations. This acquisition aligns with the TNI AL’s objective to modernize its fleet.
Photo: LPhot Barry Swainsbury/MOD, OGL v1.0OGL v1.0, via Wikimedia Commons
In a recent development, Janes has identified a potential candidate: the Italian Navy’s assault helicopter carrier/aircraft carrier ITS Giuseppe Garibaldi (C 551). The carrier, which was placed in reserve in October 2024, could be sold to Indonesia. A deal with Indonesia might also include the transfer of some of the Italian Navy’s 30 AV-8B Harrier II short take-off and vertical landing (STOVL) fighter jets.
The Indonesian Navy’s interest in an aircraft carrier is part of a broader plan to modernize its fleet. This includes the Minimum Essential Force (MEF) plan, which includes at least four helicopter-carrying vessels, four frigates, and several missile patrol boats. Indonesia has also signed a EUR1.18 billion contract with Fincantieri for two multirole offshore patrol ships (Pattugliatore Polivalente d’Altura: PPA). These vessels are expected to be the largest warships in service with the Indonesian Navy once commissioned. 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. Additionally, the construction of two “Merah Putih” frigates, based on the Babcock Arrowhead 140 design, is underway in Indonesia. The TNI AL has also launched two Raja Haji Fisabilillah-class offshore patrol vessels 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.
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Italian Navy never had 30 Harrier II but 18 in total:
https://www.airtattoo.com/riat-2023/aircraft/mcdonnell-douglas-av-8bplus-harrier-ii-italy/#:~:text=Following%20a%20decision%20to%20acquire,from%20kits%20by%20Alenia%20Aeronatica.