Indonesia commissions first aircraft carrier from Italian vessel

Indonesia has formally accepted delivery of its first aircraft carrier, a former Italian naval vessel that marks a significant milestone in the country's maritime capabilities. The ship will be officially renamed KRI Sriwijaya next week, integrating it into Indonesia's defence fleet under a new designation that honours the historic Srivijaya maritime empire.

The acquisition represents a strategic expansion of Indonesia's naval reach across the vast waters of Southeast Asia. The vessel will be capable of supporting rotary-wing aircraft operations, enhancing the nation's ability to project power and respond rapidly to maritime emergencies across its far-flung island territories.

Indonesian officials have emphasised that the carrier will prioritise non-military applications, with disaster relief and humanitarian assistance forming a core part of its operational mandate. Given the archipelago's vulnerability to natural disasters including tsunamis, earthquakes and severe weather, the vessel is expected to play a crucial role in emergency response and civilian protection missions.

The addition of the KRI Sriwijaya to Indonesia's naval arsenal comes as regional powers increasingly invest in maritime infrastructure and capabilities. The ship's deployment is expected to enhance coordination between Indonesian defence and civilian agencies while strengthening the country's presence in regional waters.