ASIATODAY.ID, JAKARTA — Indonesia is approaching a historic milestone in its maritime defense development as the country prepares to operate its first aircraft carrier, Giuseppe Garibaldi, a former Italian Navy flagship that is set to strengthen Jakarta’s naval capabilities and strategic presence in the Indo-Pacific.
The transfer of Giuseppe Garibaldi represents a major step in President Prabowo Subianto’s defense modernization strategy, aimed at enhancing maritime security, strengthening national defense capabilities, and supporting Indonesia’s role as a key regional power.
The Indonesian Navy (TNI AL) has deployed around 100 personnel to Italy to undergo intensive training and operational preparation ahead of the vessel’s transfer to Indonesia.
The transition will initially involve a joint crew arrangement, combining Indonesian and Italian naval personnel before full operational control is gradually transferred to the Indonesian Navy.
“The joint crew consists of Indonesian Navy personnel and Italian Navy personnel. After the ship arrives in Indonesia, the transfer process will continue until full operation is carried out by Indonesian Navy personnel,” First Admiral Tunggul Waluyo, Chief of the Indonesian Navy Information Service, said.
A New Chapter in Indonesia’s Maritime Strategy
As the world’s largest archipelagic nation with more than 17,000 islands, Indonesia’s security and economic interests are closely connected to the stability of its surrounding seas.
Located between the Indian and Pacific Oceans, Indonesia sits along some of the world’s most important maritime routes, making naval capability a key element of national resilience and regional stability.
The operation of Giuseppe Garibaldi will provide Indonesia with expanded capabilities for maritime security missions, humanitarian assistance, disaster response, and international cooperation.
Beyond its military role, the aircraft carrier represents Indonesia’s ambition to strengthen its identity as a major maritime nation and enhance its strategic presence in the Indo-Pacific.
Lampung Prepared as Strategic Naval Base
To support the operation of Giuseppe Garibaldi, Indonesia is preparing infrastructure facilities, including docking and logistical support at a naval base in Lampung, southern Sumatra.
The development of these facilities is underway to ensure operational readiness before the vessel arrives in Indonesian waters.
“Lampung is one of the bases prepared to accommodate Garibaldi. The development of docking and supporting facilities is continuing so that all requirements are ready before the ship arrives,” Tunggul said.
The preparation demonstrates that Indonesia’s maritime modernization is not limited to acquiring major platforms but also includes the development of supporting infrastructure and operational capacity.
Strengthening Indonesia’s Indo-Pacific Role
The arrival of Giuseppe Garibaldi comes amid growing strategic competition and evolving security dynamics across the Indo-Pacific.
Indonesia has consistently emphasized the importance of maintaining regional peace, freedom of navigation, and respect for international law while pursuing its national interests.
Former Indonesian Navy Chief Admiral (Ret.) Ade Supandi previously highlighted the potential strategic value of the aircraft carrier, including its possible role in strengthening Indonesia’s maritime presence in areas such as the Natuna Sea.
According to him, the visible presence of naval forces remains an important element of demonstrating sovereignty in maritime areas.
At the same time, he emphasized the importance of sustainable planning to ensure that operational and maintenance requirements remain manageable for the Indonesian Navy.
Giuseppe Garibaldi: Italy’s Naval Legacy
Built by Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri, Giuseppe Garibaldi was launched in 1983 and became one of Italy’s most important naval platforms.
The vessel measures approximately 180.2 meters in length and can reach speeds of up to 30 knots, or around 56 kilometers per hour.
Designed as a light aircraft carrier and helicopter carrier, the ship has supported various naval operations during its service with the Italian Navy.
Its transfer to Indonesia reflects continued defense cooperation between Jakarta and Rome, while providing Indonesia with a strategic platform to expand its maritime capabilities.
Beyond Defense: Indonesia’s Maritime Ambition
The transfer of Giuseppe Garibaldi is part of Indonesia’s broader defense modernization program under President Prabowo Subianto.
Jakarta has expanded defense partnerships with strategic countries through cooperation involving military technology, aircraft, naval platforms, and industrial capabilities.
As a country that has long pursued a balanced foreign policy, Indonesia’s growing maritime capability reflects its ambition to safeguard national interests while contributing to regional stability and security.
For Indonesia, Giuseppe Garibaldi is more than a naval platform. It represents a new chapter in the country’s journey toward becoming a stronger maritime power in the Indo-Pacific.
As the historic vessel prepares to sail toward Indonesia, Jakarta is entering a new era of maritime strategy. (AT Network)
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