The Indonesian Navy (TNI AL) has recently received the aircraft carrier ITS Giuseppe Garibaldi, which was previously owned by the Italian Navy. This ship, built in 1985, will be introduced as KRI Gajah Mada and added to Indonesia's naval fleet. After 40 years of service to Italy and participation in several wars, this ship was set to be decommissioned in 2024 and has now been donated to the Indonesian government free of charge.
Transfer History and Route
The transfer of this ship from Italy to Indonesia began in late August and ultimately arrived at the port of Jakarta on September 17, 2026. The estimated cost of the transfer journey is around $60 million, but the ship itself has been donated to Indonesia free of charge. The Italian Navy decided to donate this ship to Indonesia after necessary evaluations to save on maintenance costs and decommissioning plans.
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Future Plans for KRI Gajah Mada
The Indonesian Navy intends to use the KRI Gajah Mada as a helicopter carrier, but it is likely that this ship will also be used as a drone carrier. This comes as Indonesia possesses high-altitude drones that can be added to this ship. Additionally, in line with improving emergency response and assistance capabilities during crises, Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto has recently called for investment in the country's helicopter fleet for relief purposes.
Although the transfer of this ship is a significant step in strengthening the Indonesian Navy, the country must make substantial investments in the infrastructure and maintenance of such ships. The Indonesian Navy is constructing a dock and other support facilities at the Ratay Bay naval base in Sumatra to meet the needs of this ship and to utilize its capabilities in the future.
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