Post by : Shakul

Jakarta, Indonesia — The Indonesian Navy (TNI Angkatan Laut) is accelerating preparations to operate its prospective first aircraft carrier by sending personnel to Italy for specialized training.

The training initiative, announced by the Indonesian Defense Ministry, will initially involve around 100 selected TNI AL personnel who are scheduled to travel to Italy for hands‑on instruction and onboard exercises as the carrier Giuseppe Garibaldi makes its voyage from Italy to Indonesia.

Defense Ministry spokesperson Brig. Gen. Rico Ricardo Sirait described the program as an early phase in preparing crews for service once the aircraft carrier officially enters operation under the Indonesian Navy. He confirmed that only the most qualified sailors with relevant technical skills and shipping experience will be chosen for the training cohort.

The broader operational plan anticipates approximately 500 TNI AL sailors will eventually be needed to form the full carrier crew, with this figure possibly increasing once aviation and non‑core personnel are included. This estimate was highlighted by Rear Admiral Yayan Sofiyan, Assistant for Operations to the Navy Chief of Staff, during a discussion on Indonesia’s transition into a blue‑water navy.

In addition to crew training, naval leadership has emphasized the importance of developing supporting infrastructure, including berthing facilities, technical systems, and long‑term logistical capabilities that will enable sustained carrier operations.

The planned aircraft carrier — the former Italian Navy vessel Giuseppe Garibaldi — is being acquired by Indonesia under ongoing negotiations between the Indonesian Ministry of Defense, the Italian government, and Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri. The carrier transfer is expected to mark a major milestone in strengthening Indonesia’s maritime defense capacity and expanding its naval reach.

Indonesia is targeting the carrier’s arrival before the 81st anniversary of the Indonesian National Armed Forces celebration in October 2026, although final delivery timing will depend on the completion of the acquisition process.

Defense officials have underscored that beyond military missions, the aircraft carrier could also support humanitarian operations and disaster response, reflecting the vessel’s strategic versatility.

The training in Italy represents a crucial step toward building a skilled core force capable of operating and maintaining one of the region’s most complex naval platforms — positioning Indonesia as a stronger maritime power in the Indo‑Pacific.

#Global News #India News #Indonesia News