From the Guardian · Associated Press · · 2m
Indonesia's new aircraft carrier sparks cost and strategy debate
Indonesia receives its first carrier from Italy, but defence experts question whether the ageing warship makes sense for the archipelago's actual needs.
In brief
Indonesia receives its first carrier from Italy, but defence experts question whether the ageing warship makes sense for the archipelago's actual needs. Indonesia's new aircraft carrier could cost far more to operate than the government admits, and experts argue the money might be better spent on submarines and…
Indonesia receives first aircraft carrier
The 41-year-old former Italian warship ITS Giuseppe Garibaldi arrived in Jakarta on Friday and will be commissioned as KRI Gajah Mada, making Indonesia only the second south-east Asian nation with a carrier.
Italy's gift strengthens defence ties
Italy gifted the retired carrier to Indonesia in March to boost defence engagement and pursue deals on submarines and aircraft, while saving itself decommissioning costs.
Prabowo prioritises military expansion
President Prabowo Subianto has made defence development a top priority, pushing for submarines, frigates, fighter jets and increased defence cooperation with various countries.
Government approves $450m in financing
Indonesia's finance ministry approved $450 million for the carrier program in 2025, but lawmakers warn the total cost could reach $900 million when retrofitting is included.
Prabowo pitches disaster response role
Prabowo says the carrier will combat forest fires and natural disasters by carrying up to 10 helicopters and large quantities of water, and operating drones across Indonesia's archipelago.
“the vessel would help authorities combat forest and peatland fires”
Experts question operational necessity
Defence analysts argue Indonesia doesn't need a carrier and should prioritise submarines and frigates instead, especially given the country's fiscal pressures and the carrier's high operating costs.
“Indonesia has a greater need for submarines, frigates and asymmetric weapons systems”
Fiscal pressures complicate spending
Indonesia's economy faces growing budget constraints as the government funds costly programs while economists warn of slowing growth and weaker state revenues.
Thailand's carrier offers cautionary tale
Defence analysts cite Thailand's carrier, commissioned in 1997, as a warning: it has spent much of its service life in port due to operational and budget constraints.
“it has spent much of its service life in port because of operational and budget constraints”
Experts call for transparency on costs
Defence analysts demand the government be transparent about the full costs of operating the carrier, including personnel, maintenance, fuel and infrastructure, before committing to the project.
“The plan to acquire the Garibaldi must be based on genuine operational needs”
What matters most
Indonesia's new aircraft carrier could cost far more to operate than the government admits, and experts argue the money might be better spent on submarines and frigates.
