Indonesia is considering acquiring Italy’s decommissioned aircraft carrier Giuseppe Garibaldi to utilize it as a naval drone carrier, aligning with its plans to enhance naval capabilities. Close defense relations with Italy have facilitated ship acquisitions and collaborations, particularly involving aerial drone production. The acquisition aims to support Indonesia’s strategic efforts amid evolving security challenges in the South China Sea.
Indonesia is actively exploring the acquisition of Italy’s decommissioned aircraft carrier, the Giuseppe Garibaldi, primarily for use as a naval drone carrier. This consideration aligns with Indonesia’s recent collaboration with Turkish firm Baykar, which involves local production of navalized TB-3 drones and Akinci UAVs. The growing naval cooperation between Indonesia and Italy has included significant defense industry partnerships and ship acquisitions over recent years, as reported by the Rivista Italiana Difesa on March 11, 2025.
Initially commissioned in 1985, the Giuseppe Garibaldi was Italy’s first ship designed with a full-length flight deck. Originally an anti-submarine warfare carrier, it later adapted to accommodate AV-8B Harrier II fighter jets after legislative changes in 1989 expanded its operational capabilities. Throughout its service, extensive upgrades were made to enhance its air operations, including the removal of missile launchers to focus on aviation efficiency and a significant modernization in 2013.
The carrier has a standard displacement of 10,100 tons, a full-load displacement of 14,150 tons, and measures 180.2 meters in length. Its advanced flight deck is engineered for STOVL operations, featuring a ski-jump ramp. Propelled by four General Electric/Avio LM2500 gas turbines, the ship reaches speeds exceeding 30 knots, with an operational range of approximately 7,000 nautical miles.
Equipped with advanced electronic warfare systems and various radars, the carrier effectively detects air and surface threats. Its multi-layered defense capabilities include octuple surface-to-air missile launchers and several close-in defense systems. Historically, the Giuseppe Garibaldi has served in numerous NATO operations, including those in Kosovo, Afghanistan, and Libya. After nearly four decades of service, it was decommissioned on October 1, 2024.
The potential acquisition of the Giuseppe Garibaldi fits within Indonesia’s Minimum Essential Force plan, emphasizing the augmentation of naval capabilities. Plans include acquiring aircraft carriers for non-combat roles and enhancing the fleet with frigates from Italy and patrol vessels from Japan. This expansion aims to bolster Indonesia’s maritime security, particularly in light of strategic challenges in the South China Sea.
The proposed transformation of the Garibaldi into a drone carrier signifies Indonesia’s commitment to modernizing its naval operations. The collaboration with Turkey for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) implies a focus on integrating advanced technologies into Indonesia’s naval strategy. The carrier may serve as a launch platform for upcoming TB-3 and Akinci drones, enhancing operational scope within Indonesia’s maritime domain.
Furthermore, Indonesia’s defense ties with Italy highlight recent acquisitions of former Italian Navy vessels that have been integrated into its fleet. Future agreements surrounding the Garibaldi may also involve transferring AV-8B Harrier II jets, although no definitive agreements have been confirmed yet. Domestic construction proposals for amphibious assault ships are also under consideration, indicating a diverse approach to enhancing naval capabilities.
Amid evolving regional security dynamics, Indonesia is modernizing its fleet with an aim to operate multiple amphibious helicopter carriers. The strategic landscape in the South China Sea necessitates a rapid-response naval presence. Nonetheless, financial constraints and operational considerations may prompt Indonesia to evaluate more conventional support ships or landing docks in fulfilling its naval objectives.
Indonesia’s exploration of acquiring the Giuseppe Garibaldi aligns with its strategic aim of enhancing naval capabilities, particularly through drone operations. Given the vessel’s historical significance and technical features, this acquisition could bolster Indonesia’s defense posture in a challenging regional security landscape. However, financial assessments and operational requirements will heavily influence the ultimate decision regarding the carrier’s procurement and use within the Indonesian Navy.
Original Source: armyrecognition.com
