Indonesia is considering acquiring Italy’s decommissioned aircraft carrier, Giuseppe Garibaldi, to convert it for naval drone operations in collaboration with Turkey. This potential deal aims to enhance Indonesia’s naval capabilities and represents a strengthening of naval cooperation with Italy. The carrier has a significant operational history and could serve as a strategic asset as Indonesia seeks to modernize its fleet amid evolving regional security challenges.
Indonesia is exploring the acquisition of Italy’s decommissioned aircraft carrier, the Giuseppe Garibaldi, as part of its initiative to utilize naval drone operations. The discussions, first reported by Rivista Italiana Difesa on March 11, 2025, are focused on leveraging the carrier in conjunction with Indonesia’s agreement with the Turkish company Baykar to produce navalized TB-3 drones and Akinci UAVs locally. This potential deal reflects growing naval collaboration between Indonesia and Italy, fostering both defense industry partnerships and ship acquisitions.
The Giuseppe Garibaldi, commissioned in 1985, served originally as an anti-submarine warfare carrier and was Italy’s inaugural ship equipped with a full-length flight deck. It has a history of significant upgrades, including modifications to deploy fixed-wing aircraft after legislative changes permitted such operations in the Italian Navy. Over its operational lifespan, the ship underwent a modernization in 2003 to enhance air operations and a 2013 overhaul to extend its longevity.
The carrier has a standard displacement of 10,100 tons and a full load displacement of 14,150 tons, measuring 180.2 meters in length. Its advanced propulsion system, comprising four General Electric/Avio gas turbines, allows it to achieve speeds exceeding 30 knots. Designed to carry 18 aircraft, including AV-8B Harrier IIs and helicopters, it is equipped with multiple electronic and defensive systems, enabling comprehensive air and surface detection.
The Garibaldi has participated in numerous military and humanitarian missions globally, proving its versatility and operational significance. After nearly 40 years of service, the aircraft carrier was decommissioned on October 1, 2024, making way for the Trieste-class landing helicopter dock, which enhances the Italian Navy’s capabilities. Indonesia’s interest is further underscored by its plans to convert the ship into a drone carrier as it ramps up defense cooperation with Türkiye.
Additionally, Indonesia’s naval expansion aligns with the Minimum Essential Force plan, which emphasizes the procurement of helicopter-capable vessels. The Chief of Staff, Admiral Muhammad Ali, envisions an aircraft carrier supporting non-combat missions alongside acquiring frigates from Italy. Recent approvals from the Indonesian Parliament for patrol vessels from Japan highlight continued efforts to boost maritime security, calling attention to Indonesia’s evolving strategic landscape in the region.
In response to enhancing its naval strength, Indonesia is considering various proposals, including a potential transfer of AV-8B Harrier II aircraft from Italy. However, the country is also evaluating domestic construction of an amphibious assault ship in collaboration with international partners, reflecting a broader strategy in the face of complex security challenges and the need for rapid-response operational capabilities.
In conclusion, Indonesia’s exploration of acquiring the decommissioned Giuseppe Garibaldi underscores its strategic intent to modernize naval operations, particularly in drone capabilities. This interest aligns with expanding defense collaborations, especially with Turkey, while advancing the nation’s efforts to enhance maritime security amidst regional tensions. As evaluations proceed on whether to pursue this acquisition or consider domestic alternatives, Indonesia’s naval modernization strategy remains critical to its national defense agenda in an evolving geopolitical landscape.
Original Source: armyrecognition.com
