Inp.polri.go.id - Jakarta. The Ministry of Defense confirmed on Friday (13/2/2026) that Indonesia is set to acquire its first-ever aircraft carrier, the Giuseppe Garibaldi, as a strategic grant from the Italian government. 

Brigadier General. Rico Ricardo Sirait, the Head of Information at the Ministry, clarified that while the vessel itself is a gift, the Indonesian government has allocated a significant budget for an extensive retrofit and technological adaptation to align with the Indonesian Navy's operational requirements.

"The grant allows us to shift our fiscal focus toward modernization. The allocated funds will ensure the Garibaldi is equipped with the latest systems necessary for our maritime security," Chief Rico said, as cited by antaranews.com.

Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Muhammad Ali raised his optimism that the 180-meter vessel, built by Fincantieri, will arrive in Indonesian waters before the 81st Indonesian Military (TNI) Anniversary on 5 October 2026. 

Negotiations with Fincantieri are currently focused on the refit process, which is estimated to cost approximately $450 million (Rp7.2 trillion). Once operational, the Garibaldi—which can hit speeds of 30 knots—will serve as a mobile aviation hub for helicopters and drones, significantly boosting Indonesia's power projection in the Indo-Pacific.

(mg/inp/pr/rs)