Indonesia eyes Italian aircraft carrier for naval modernization

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.

UK task group links up with Italian carrier in last act of autumn deployment MOD 45167520
Photo: LPhot Barry Swainsbury/MOD, OGL v1.0OGL v1.0, via Wikimedia Commons
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U.S. Navy’s KC-130T expands mission with new tanker recipients

The U.S. Navy Reserve’s KC-130T Hercules fleet, upgraded with the NP2000 propeller system, is now cleared to aerially refuel a significantly wider range of aircraft across the carrier airwing following envelope expansion testing at the Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division (NAWCAD) which concluded in early 2025.


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Chinese PLA Navy helicopter and Philippine C-208 engage in tense encounter over Scarborough Shoal

Amidst the ongoing tensions in the South China Sea, a recent aerial encounter has raised concerns about safety and escalating disputes in the region. A Chinese military helicopter engaged with a Philippine Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) aircraft over Scarborough Shoal, which the Philippines called Panatag Shoal and Huangyan Dao by the Chinese. The incident, witnessed by journalists onboard the Philippine aircraft, highlights the close proximity and assertive actions of the Chinese military.


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British MoD under pressure to act quickly on aircrew cancer claims amid growing concerns

The U.K. government is investigating claims that aircrew were exposed to toxic fumes from military helicopters, leading to cancer diagnoses, with the Ministry of Defence (MoD) under scrutiny, according to a BBC news report. At least six cases have been settled out of court, with many more aircrew and families pursuing legal action. The MoD is now investigating the extent of the issue among both active and veteran personnel across the RAF, Army, and Navy.

SeaKing HC4 2002
U.S. Navy photo by Photographer’s Mate 1st Class Kevin H. Tierney, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
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TNI AL considers aircraft carrier acquisition amidst fleet modernisation

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.

KASAL,Laksamana TNI Muhammad Ali
Indonesian Navy Information Service, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
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