Indonesia Prepares for Carrier Operations Ahead of Garibaldi Transfer

Why It Matters

The mockup accelerates crew readiness, reducing the learning curve once the carrier arrives, while the delayed hand‑over and required refit underscore Indonesia’s ambition to project power in the Indo‑Pacific and the logistical hurdles of operating a legacy carrier.

Key Takeaways

• TNI AL built a flight‑deck mockup at Juanda Air Base.
• Mockup matches Garibaldi’s size but omits accurate elevator placement.
• Transfer of ex‑Italian carrier expected by Dec 2026, not Oct 2026.
• Vessel will need extensive refit before combat‑ready operations.

Pulse Analysis

Indonesia’s decision to acquire the decommissioned Italian carrier Giuseppe Garibaldi marks a bold step toward expanding its blue‑water capabilities. The 180‑meter hull, once a flagship of the Italian Navy, will become KRI Gajah Mada, named after a historic Majapahit commander, signaling Jakarta’s intent to bolster maritime influence across Southeast Asia. Integrating a carrier into a navy that has traditionally focused on littoral patrols requires new doctrines, logistics chains, and personnel expertise, making the acquisition a strategic pivot for the region’s balance of power.

To bridge the capability gap, the Indonesian Navy’s 100th Squadron has painted a large flight‑deck outline on the apron of Juanda Naval Air Station. This low‑cost simulation facility lets pilots practice take‑offs, landings, and deck handling with AS565 Panther helicopters, while deck crews rehearse aircraft movement and safety procedures. Although the mockup reproduces the carrier’s overall dimensions, it simplifies complex features such as the starboard‑side elevators, indicating that the current setup is intended for introductory training rather than full operational rehearsal. Future investments may see a more detailed replica or virtual reality solutions to refine crew proficiency.

The transfer timeline has shifted from an optimistic early‑October target to a December 2026 hand‑over, as confirmed by Italy’s parliament. Moreover, the agreement stipulates that the vessel will be delivered without offensive weapons, retaining only propulsion, safety, and habitability systems. Consequently, Indonesia faces a multi‑year refit program to install radar, combat systems, and aircraft launch capabilities. Successfully navigating these technical and financial challenges will determine whether KRI Gajah Mada can evolve from a symbolic acquisition into a functional asset that enhances Indonesia’s deterrence posture and supports joint exercises with regional partners.