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🇮🇩 Indonesia /Conflict & Security

Indonesia's First Aircraft Carrier to Debut at TNI Anniversary Parade

From Tempo · () Indonesian

Translated from Indonesian, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Named sources New plan
  • Indonesia is set to debut its first aircraft carrier, the KRI Gajah Mada (formerly ITS Giuseppe Garibaldi), at the 81st Indonesian National Defense Forces anniversary parade in October 2026.
  • The vessel will participate in a naval parade and serve as a platform for VVIP guests during the event.
  • Acquired through an intergovernmental grant, the aircraft carrier is scheduled to arrive in Indonesia in mid-September 2026 and will be formally commissioned on September 25, 2026.

Indonesia's naval capabilities are set to receive a significant boost with the upcoming debut of its first aircraft carrier, the KRI Gajah Mada, at the 81st anniversary of the Indonesian National Defense Forces (TNI) in October 2026. The vessel, formerly known as the ITS Giuseppe Garibaldi, will make its first public appearance as part of a naval parade.

The aircraft carrier will not only showcase Indonesia's growing military might but also serve a crucial role as a platform for very very important persons (VVIP) during the event. This includes hosting the president, ministers, and high-ranking TNI officials for the naval weapons systems parade. The Indonesian Navy Information Service Chief, First Admiral Tunggul, confirmed the ship's participation, noting it will sail alongside other Indonesian Navy vessels.

Under the initial plan, the Garibaldi will take part as one of the vessels in the sailing pass for the 81st TNI anniversary.

— First Admiral TunggulIndonesian Navy Information Service Chief confirming the aircraft carrier's participation in the anniversary parade.

The KRI Gajah Mada is currently en route from Italy to Indonesia, with an expected arrival in mid-September 2026. The ship's journey, which began on August 24, 2026, will take over 20 days, passing through the Suez Canal and Red Sea under Italian frigate escort. Upon its arrival, the vessel will officially be renamed KRI Gajah Mada and fly the Indonesian flag. The formal commissioning ceremony, scheduled for September 25, 2026, is anticipated to be officiated by President Prabowo Subianto, who is also expected to be on board.

Future operations for the KRI Gajah Mada include the capability to operate helicopters from the Indonesian Navy, Air Force, and Army. The Navy is also committed to providing comprehensive training for pilots to ensure they can effectively operate aircraft from the carrier. This acquisition marks a significant step in modernizing Indonesia's defense infrastructure and expanding its maritime operational capacity.

The President is planned to officiate the ceremony and be on board the Gajah Mada aircraft carrier.

— Admiral Muhammad AliIndonesian Navy Chief of Staff detailing the commissioning ceremony plans.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Tempo in Indonesian. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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