Indonesia has acquired its first aircraft carrier as Prabowo advocates for military modernization.

Indonesia has welcomed its inaugural aircraft carrier as President Prabowo Subianto propels military modernization and enhances the nation’s defense capabilities. Indonesia has received its first aircraft carrier, representing a notable enhancement to the nation’s naval strength as President Prabowo Subianto advocates for military modernization. The 41-year-old vessel, previously operated by the Italian Navy as Giuseppe Garibaldi, reached Tanjung Priok port in North Jakarta on Friday after its journey from Italy, passing through Colombo and the Malacca Strait.

Indonesian Navy Chief of Staff Muhammad Ali stated that the carrier will mainly serve for disaster response operations, especially in delivering supplies to remote regions via helicopters. “There are many disasters in this country, so we require a vessel or platform that can accommodate several helicopters, as they can swiftly transport logistics to remote areas,” Ali stated. The 180-meter vessel has the capacity to house up to 830 personnel and can transport as many as 18 helicopters, as stated by the Indonesian Navy. 

The ship is anticipated to be renamed KRI Sriwijaya, in honor of the Srivijaya Empire, a formidable maritime kingdom that was established in Sumatra and exerted influence over various regions of Southeast Asia from the seventh to the 13th centuries. While Indonesian authorities have highlighted the carrier's humanitarian role, Ali noted that it could also "be deployed for combat missions, if necessary," underscoring its potential military function. 

The vessel was commissioned by Italy in 1985 and retired from service in 2024. In March 2026, Italy consented to transfer the carrier to Indonesia, aiming to enhance defense cooperation between the two nations. The arrangement enables Italy to sidestep the expenses linked to decommissioning the vessel, as Rome explores potential defense agreements with Indonesia concerning submarines and aircraft. Ali stated that the ship was in excellent condition and could serve the Indonesian Navy for as long as twenty years. “Its condition remains excellent, and I hope it can serve the Indonesian navy for the next 15 to 20 years,” he stated. Indonesia’s Finance Ministry has sanctioned $450 million in funding for the carrier program in 2025. 

However, opposition politicians have expressed worries that the total expenses may ultimately be much greater. The acquisition occurs as Prabowo, a former general and former defense minister, prioritizes the enhancement of Indonesia’s military capabilities and the expansion of international security cooperation. During his tenure as defense minister in 2022, Prabowo managed an $8.1 billion deal for Indonesia to procure 42 French-made Rafale fighter jets. 

Indonesia has expanded its defense ties with various countries, including India, which confirmed this year its commitment to supplying Jakarta with long-range missiles. The country has enhanced its international defense relationships by establishing a “Major Defense Cooperation Partnership” with the United States during Trump's presidency and signing a security treaty with Australia.