World · Singapore Bureau
Indonesia receives first aircraft carrier as KRI Sriwijaya
Indonesia has taken delivery of its first aircraft carrier, the former Italian naval vessel Giuseppe Garibaldi, which has now docked in Jakarta. The ship will be renamed KRI Sriwijaya and significantly expand the country's maritime capabilities.
LSN Singapore ·
The acquisition marks a major milestone for Indonesia's naval modernisation efforts, enhancing the country's ability to project power across its vast archipelago and surrounding waters. The vessel arrived in the capital following completion of the transfer agreement between the two nations.
The Giuseppe Garibaldi served Italy's navy for decades before being decommissioned. At approximately 10,000 tonnes, the carrier is capable of operating helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft, substantially boosting Indonesia's air assets at sea. The ship will undergo refitting and crew training to meet Indonesian navy standards.
The renaming to KRI Sriwijaya pays homage to the historic Srivijaya maritime empire that dominated Southeast Asian waters centuries ago. The designation reflects Indonesia's aspirations to become a leading maritime power in the region.
Defence analysts note that the acquisition signals Indonesia's commitment to strengthening its naval presence amid growing strategic competition in Southeast Asia. The carrier will primarily be deployed for humanitarian assistance, disaster relief, and regional security operations across the Indonesian archipelago.