Indonesian Navy Wants Ex-Italian Aircraft Carrier to Be Delivered Before October 5
•February 12, 2026
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Why It Matters
Securing the carrier would give Indonesia its first true power‑projection platform, reshaping regional naval dynamics and signaling a leap in defence capability.
Key Takeaways
- •Indonesia targets carrier delivery before Oct 5 anniversary
- •No formal purchase contract signed; negotiations ongoing
- •Carrier likely to arrive with Italian crew for initial operations
- •Refits expected to occur in Indonesia after delivery
- •First Indonesian aircraft carrier boosts regional naval prestige
Pulse Analysis
Indonesia’s pursuit of the ex‑Italian carrier Giuseppe Garibaldi reflects a broader shift in Southeast Asian naval strategy. While the vessel was decommissioned by Italy in 2022, its 23,000‑ton displacement and ability to host fixed‑wing aircraft make it an attractive shortcut for a navy that has never operated a carrier. The ongoing talks with Fincantieri illustrate Jakarta’s willingness to engage European shipbuilders, leveraging existing platforms rather than commissioning a new build, which would cost significantly more and take years to complete.
The timing of the proposed hand‑over is as symbolic as it is strategic. Aligning the arrival with the TNI’s 81st anniversary ensures maximum domestic and international visibility, allowing the government to parade a tangible symbol of maritime modernization. However, the compressed schedule raises operational challenges: crew training, integration of Indonesian systems, and immediate logistical support will likely require a contingent of Italian technicians on board. Such a collaborative hand‑over could set a precedent for future transfers in the region, where rapid capability gains are prized over prolonged development cycles.
Looking ahead, the carrier’s future will hinge on Indonesia’s upgrade roadmap. Private firms like Republikorp have already signaled interest in retrofitting the ship for local requirements, potentially adding modern radar, combat management systems, and a mixed air wing. Successful integration would not only enhance Jakarta’s power‑projection but also stimulate its domestic defence industry, creating a niche market for carrier‑related services in the Indo‑Pacific. The outcome will be watched closely by neighboring navies, as Indonesia’s move could trigger a new wave of carrier‑centric procurement across the region.
Indonesian Navy Wants Ex-Italian Aircraft Carrier to be Delivered Before October 5
Indonesia’s plan to acquire the former Italian Navy aircraft carrier Giuseppe Garibaldi (C 551) appears to be gathering pace, although a formal contract confirmation is yet to be made.
As reported by the Indonesian state media outlet Antara News, Indonesian Navy (TNI AL) Chief of Staff Admiral Muhammad Ali stated that the service expects the aircraft carrier to arrive before the Indonesian National Armed Forces’ (TNI) 81st Anniversary on October 5.
However, the admiral did not explicitly state that Indonesia has purchased the vessel or that a contract has been signed. Instead, he explained that the Ministry of Defence remains in negotiations with Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri and the Italian Navy.
Naval News Comments
Admiral Muhammad Ali and other Indonesian Navy officials on board Garibaldi (May 2024). TNI AL picture.
The October 5 target date is important. The annual TNI anniversary is usually marked by a large-scale military parade and sail past, often used to showcase new acquisitions and major defence assets to the public.
If the former Italian carrier were to arrive before that date, it would likely feature prominently in the commemorations. Such a timeline suggests a more political and symbolic dimension to the proposed transfer to allow the government and navy to display “Indonesia’s first aircraft carrier capability” during the country’s most visible military events.
The short delivery window also raises operational questions. Indonesia has never operated an aircraft carrier, meaning that a rapid transfer would almost certainly require substantial involvement by Italian personnel. Therefore, it is plausible that the carrier, if transferred in time for October, would arrive with a sizeable Italian crew onboard to assist with basic operations.
A short delivery deadline would also imply that major refit or modification work would not be completed in Italy prior to transfer, thereby increasing the likelihood that it would take place in Indonesia after arrival.
As Naval News previously reported during Indo Defence 2025, an Indonesian private company, Republikorp, openly expressed interest in carrying out modification works on the Garibaldi should the transfer proceed.
At present, however, no official details have been released by the Indonesian Navy or the Ministry of Defence regarding the scope of potential upgrades.
Speculation about Indonesia’s interest in Garibaldi has intensified over the past two years. The discussions became more visible following Admiral Ali’s visit to the vessel in Italy in May 2024, where he was accompanied by the then Deputy Chief of the Italian Navy, Admiral Giuseppe Berutti Bergotto.
The post Indonesian Navy Wants Ex-Italian Aircraft Carrier to be Delivered Before October 5 appeared first on Naval News.
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