TNI Says Italian Aircraft Carrier Will Strengthen Operational Readiness

The Giuseppe Garibaldi aircraft carrier is expected to reach Indonesia on September 19, bringing a major addition to the Indonesian military’s main weapons systems. The Indonesian government and the House of Representatives’ Commission I agreed to accept the Italian government’s defense and security vessel, valued at 54 million euros, or Rp1.108 trillion.

The TNI Headquarters said the ship’s arrival would strengthen Indonesia’s defense system. “The presence of the weaponry will enhance the capability and operational readiness of the TNI,” said Major General Muhammad Nas, head of the TNI Information Center.

The Indonesian Navy is preparing to receive the carrier, including its personnel and maintenance arrangements. Nas did not disclose where the ship will anchor after arriving. Indonesia plans to rename it the Indonesian Naval Vessel KRI Gajah Mada.

The carrier left Italy on August 24 and is expected to take about three weeks to reach Jakarta. During the voyage, it is scheduled to pass through the Suez Canal, stop in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, and then continue through waters near Colombo, Sri Lanka.

Brigadier General Rico Ricardo Sirait, head of the Defense Ministry’s Information Bureau, said about 400 soldiers would crew the ship, including Indonesian Navy personnel. The Indonesian sailors will take part in training and familiarization as preparations for the carrier’s operations. The arrival follows Commission I’s approval of the Italian grant to the Defense Ministry on July 20.

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The presence of the weaponry will enhance the capability and operational readiness of the TNI.