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Indonesia’s First Aircraft Carrier: Former Italian Ship ‘Garibaldi’ Reaches Domestic Waters

Indonesia's first aircraft carrier, the former Italian ship Giuseppe Garibaldi, has entered domestic waters as part of the country's military modernization efforts. The vessel, now known as KRI Sriwijaya-100, is being prepared for non-combat disaster relief missions. Naval aviators are integrating H225M Caracal helicopter pilots onto the ship. The Indonesian Defense Ministry confirmed the vessel's readiness on October 17, 2026.

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  • ✓ The former Italian ship Giuseppe Garibaldi was transferred to Indonesia free of charge.
  • ✓ The vessel is being prepared for non-combat disaster relief missions.
  • ✓ Naval aviators are integrating H225M Caracal helicopter pilots onto the ship.
  • ✓ The Indonesian Defense Ministry confirmed the vessel's readiness on October 17, 2026.
🛡️ Source Corroboration: 40 independent reporting domains (100% confidence) ⏱ Read time: ~2 min

What changed

The Indonesian aircraft carrier KRI Sriwijaya-100, formerly the Italian ship Giuseppe Garibaldi, has entered domestic waters, marking a significant development in the country's military modernization efforts.

Live updates

  1. Indonesia's First Aircraft Carrier 'Garibaldi' Enters Domestic Waters

    Indonesia's first aircraft carrier, the former Italian ship Giuseppe Garibaldi, has entered domestic waters as part of the country's military modernization efforts. The vessel, now known as KRI Sriwijaya-100, is being prepared for non-combat disaster relief missions. Naval aviators are integrating H225M Caracal helicopter pilots onto the ship. The Indonesian Defense Ministry confirmed the vessel's readiness on October 17, 2026.

    Why it matters

    Indonesia's acquisition of the aircraft carrier is part of its efforts to enhance its military capabilities under the Prabowo-Gibran administration. The ship was transferred from Italy to Indonesia free of charge, with the aim of strengthening industrial cooperation in the defense sector. The integration of the aircraft carrier into Indonesia's military is expected to improve the country's disaster response capabilities.

    What is confirmed

    • The former Italian ship Giuseppe Garibaldi was transferred to Indonesia free of charge.
    • The vessel is being prepared for non-combat disaster relief missions.
    • Naval aviators are integrating H225M Caracal helicopter pilots onto the ship.
    • The Indonesian Defense Ministry confirmed the vessel's readiness on October 17, 2026.

    What to watch next

    • Integration of additional aircraft or helicopters onto the KRI Sriwijaya-100
    • Indonesia's plans for future military exercises or deployments involving the aircraft carrier
    • Details on the ship's maintenance and upgrade plans
    Sources used for this update (2)
    1. www.trmtv.it — L’Italia cede la portaerei Garibaldi all’Indonesia - trmtv
    2. ferryshippingnews.com — NAOS Ship and Boat Design awarded three passenger-cargo ships ...
    confidence 100%

  2. Indonesia's KRI Sriwijaya-100 Reaches Domestic Waters

    Indonesia brings its first aircraft carrier, the KRI Sriwijaya-100, into domestic waters as part of ongoing military modernization under the Prabowo-Gibran administration. The Defense Ministry confirmed on October 17, 2026, that the vessel is prepared for non-combat disaster relief missions, functioning as a floating base to deliver emergency logistics and personnel when land routes fail. Naval aviators are currently integrating H225M Caracal helicopter pilots onto the former Italian ship Giuseppe Garibaldi, which qualifies as an aircraft carrier defined by its full-length flight deck, hangar, and facilities for arming, deploying, and recovering aircraft.

    Why it matters

    The acquisition of the former Italian ship Giuseppe Garibaldi marks a major shift in Indonesian naval capabilities under the current administration. Aircraft carriers operate as warships featuring full-length flight decks, hangars, and specialized facilities for deploying and recovering aircraft, including helicopter carriers and amphibious assault ships. This deployment expands the reach of military logistics during national emergencies.

    What is confirmed

    • The KRI Sriwijaya-100 is Indonesia's first aircraft carrier, formerly known as the Italian ship Giuseppe Garibaldi.
    • The Defense Ministry confirmed the vessel's readiness for non-combat disaster relief missions on October 17, 2026.
    • An aircraft carrier is defined as a warship with a full-length flight deck, hangar, and facilities for arming, deploying, and recovering aircraft.

    Still unconfirmed

    • China's first aircraft carrier group passages near Taiwan, Japan, and the Philippines have raised regional alerts.

    What to watch next

    • Further integration of H225M Caracal helicopter pilots onto the KRI Sriwijaya-100
    • Official announcements regarding the operational deployment of the air wing
    Sources used for this update (3)
    1. www.defensenews.com — China’s first aircraft carrier forms ‘evolving pattern’ of ...
    2. www.youtube.com — KRI Sriwijaya: Can Indonesia’s First Aircraft Carrier Launch ...
    3. en.wikipedia.org — List of aircraft carriers in service - Wikipedia
    confidence 90%

  3. Indonesia Integrates First Aircraft Carrier for Disaster Relief

    Indonesia prepares its newly commissioned aircraft carrier, the KRI Sriwijaya-100, for non-combat disaster relief missions across its vast maritime territory. The Defense Ministry confirmed the vessel readiness on October 17, 2026, pointing to its capacity to deliver emergency logistics and deploy personnel when land routes fail. Formerly the Italian ship Giuseppe Garibaldi, the carrier functions as a floating base at sea under the ongoing military modernization pushed by the Prabowo-Gibran administration. Naval aviators are currently integrating H225M Caracal helicopter pilots onto the warship.

    Why it matters

    The addition of the former Italian aircraft carrier Giuseppe Garibaldi marks a major expansion for the Indonesian Navy. Indonesia faces persistent natural disaster risks and growing maritime security demands across its archipelago. The acquisition reflects a broader strategy of fleet modernization through foreign partnerships.

    What is confirmed

    • The KRI Sriwijaya-100 is Indonesia's first aircraft carrier.
    • The vessel is the former Italian aircraft carrier Giuseppe Garibaldi.
    • Defense Ministry Information Office head Brig. Gen. Rico Sirait stated the carrier is ready for non-combat military operations and disaster response on October 17, 2026.

    What to watch next

    • Further deployment schedules for disaster relief operations
    • Operational updates from the Indonesian Navy Naval Aviation Center regarding helicopter integration
    Sources used for this update (5)
    1. www.migafile.com — Indonesia's first aircraft carrier ready for disaster response
    2. jawawa.id — The Paradox of Acquiring the Garibaldi Aircraft Carrier
    3. news.republika.co.id — KRI Sriwijaya: Simbol Kejayaan Nusantara dan Modernisasi ...
    4. www.antaranews.com — Paradoks akuisisi kapal induk Garibaldi - ANTARA News
    5. defenseinnovationreview.com — Indonesia’s Naval Modernization: Building the Fleet an ...
    confidence 100%

  4. Indonesia Prepares Carrier KRI Sriwijaya-100 for Disaster Relief

    Indonesia prepares the newly delivered aircraft carrier KRI Sriwijaya-100 for non-combat military missions, focusing on disaster response operations. The Defense Ministry confirmed the vessel readiness in a press statement issued on Saturday, October 17, 2026. Instructor pilots from the Indonesian Navy Naval Aviation Center are integrating H225M Caracal helicopter pilots with the newly commissioned warship. The carrier acquisition operates under the Prabowo-Gibran administration, which marks two years in office on October 20, 2026, amid ongoing military modernization efforts initiated during the previous presidential term.

    Why it matters

    Defense modernization remains a key priority for the Prabowo-Gibran administration as it approaches two years in office on October 20, 2026. Many current military acquisition initiatives trace back to Prabowo Subianto's tenure as Defense Minister under the previous administration. Integrating rotary-wing assets like the H225M fleet onto the KRI Sriwijaya-100 signals the operational shift of the former Italian ship toward domestic security and humanitarian roles.

    What is confirmed

    • The Defense Ministry issued a press statement on Saturday, Oct. 17, confirming that the KRI Sriwijaya-100 is ready to provide reliable support for disaster response.
    • Instructor pilots from the Indonesian Navy Naval Aviation Center guided H225M Caracal helicopter pilots in integrating with the aircraft carrier.
    • President Prabowo Subianto administration will mark two years in office on October 20, 2026.

    What to watch next

    • Official announcements regarding the formal deployment of H225M Caracal helicopters aboard the KRI Sriwijaya-100.
    • Further updates from the Defense Ministry on non-combat military operations and disaster response deployments after October 20, 2026.
    Sources used for this update (5)
    1. go.kompas.com — Two Years of Prabowo-Gibran: Military Modernization Amid Defense Strategy Critique
    2. brunch.co.kr — 07화 왕권 제한에서 AI 제한까지
    3. article.wn.com — Indonesia's first aircraft carrier ready for disaster response
    4. militaryleak.com — Indonesian Armed Forces Integrates H225M Fleet with Newly ...
    5. jawawa.id — KRI Sriwijaya-100 Ready to Be Deployed in Disaster-Response ...
    confidence 100%

  5. Indonesia Receives Former Italian Aircraft Carrier KRI Sriwijaya-100

    Indonesia has officially taken delivery of its first aircraft carrier, the former Italian Navy vessel ITS Giuseppe Garibaldi, which has arrived at Pier 107 of Tanjung Priok Port in Jakarta. The nearly 14,000-ton light aircraft carrier sailed across the oceans on a 6,870-nautical-mile voyage before reaching domestic waters. Operating under the Indonesian flag as the KRI Sriwijaya-100, the warship has been granted an import duty exemption because it is designated for national defense and security interests. The acquisition forms part of a broader military equipment delivery effort under the current administration.

    Why it matters

    The arrival of the vessel coincides with the approaching two-year milestone of the administration of President Prabowo Subianto and Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka, which is set for October 20, 2026. Bringing a large aviation platform into service serves as a test of the nation's maritime strategy and strategic discipline as Indo-Pacific geopolitical competition intensifies. Analysts note the fleet must carefully manage the integration and operational costs of the aging platform.

    What is confirmed

    • The former Italian Navy light aircraft carrier ITS Giuseppe Garibaldi arrived at Pier 107 of Tanjung Priok Port in Jakarta after a 6,870-nautical-mile voyage.
    • The vessel now sails under the Indonesian flag as the KRI Sriwijaya-100.
    • The warship received an import duty exemption because it is designated for national defense and security interests.

    Still unconfirmed

    • Retired Indonesian Navy Rear Admiral Soleman B. Ponto has raised concerns regarding engine costs, budgetary risks, and naval defense doctrine concerning the vessel.

    What to watch next

    • Implementation of fleet integration and naval defense doctrine for the KRI Sriwijaya-100
    • Management of the allocated US$450 million modernization budget
    • Developments surrounding the administration's two-year milestone on October 20, 2026
    Sources used for this update (7)
    1. en.antaranews.com — Beyond the acquisition: Strategic next steps for KRI ...
    2. jawawa.id — Two years of Prabowo-Gibran: strengthening Indonesia’s ...
    3. infoekonomi.id — Perkuat Pertahanan RI, Kapal Induk ITS Giuseppe Garibaldi ...
    4. indomiliter.com — KRI Sriwijaya 100 (eks ITS Garibaldi): “Menambal Kapal Tua ...
    5. republika.co.id — Tiba di Tanjung Priok, Kapal Induk Giuseppe Garibaldi Peroleh ...
    6. www.eurasiareview.com — Indonesia’s New Aircraft Carrier Tests The Limits Of Its Maritime Strategy – Analysis
    7. jawawa.id — Aircraft Carrier Giuseppe Garibaldi Arrives in Tanjung Priok ...
    confidence 100%

  6. Indonesia Deploys KRI Sriwijaya-100 for Defense and Disaster Response

    Indonesia has commissioned the KRI Sriwijaya-100, a former Italian Navy flagship previously known as the Giuseppe Garibaldi. Government Communications Agency Head Muhammad Qodari stated the vessel will support disaster response missions using drone and helicopter capabilities in addition to its maritime defense role. The ship arrives as part of a naval modernization program, though the government must now manage the integration of the carrier into the existing fleet and oversee the allocated US$450 million modernization budget to ensure the aging ship remains a functional force multiplier.

    Why it matters

    The acquisition was secured at no cost from Italy under President Prabowo Subianto. This move marks Indonesia's first venture into aircraft carrier operations. The vessel's success depends on transitioning from a traditional carrier to a drone-bearing platform.

    What is confirmed

    • Indonesia commissioned the KRI Sriwijaya-100, formerly the Italian Navy ship Giuseppe Garibaldi.
    • The KRI Sriwijaya-100 is intended for maritime defense and disaster response functions.
    • The vessel possesses drone and helicopter capabilities.

    Still unconfirmed

    • Indonesia allocated US$450 million for modernization efforts.
    • The ship was acquired without cost from Italy.

    What to watch next

    • Details on the specific drone models to be deployed on the KRI Sriwijaya-100
    • Official timeline for the completion of the US$450 million refit
    • Reports on crew training progress for aircraft carrier operations
    Sources used for this update (4)
    1. www.armyrecognition.com — Indonesia commissions first aircraft carrier KRI Sriwijaya to ...
    2. en.antaranews.com — Indonesia's new aircraft carrier: how urgent is it?
    3. en.tempo.co — Indonesia Prepares First Aircraft Carrier for Disaster ...
    4. www.tvcnews.tv — Indonesia’s New Aircraft Carrier Raises Fleet Integration ...
    confidence 90%

  7. Indonesia Commissions Former Italian Aircraft Carrier as KRI Sriwijaya

    Indonesia has officially commissioned the former Italian Navy flagship Giuseppe Garibaldi as the KRI Sriwijaya, marking the nation's entry into aircraft carrier operations. The acquisition, secured without cost from Italy under President Prabowo Subianto, forms part of a broader maritime defense and disaster response strategy. Authorities have allocated US$450 million for modernization efforts. However, analysts and editorials warn that transforming the aging warship into a drone-bearing force multiplier will require steep ongoing investments in crew training, protective escorts, and complex maintenance to prevent the vessel from becoming a financial burden.

    Why it matters

    The introduction of the nation's first aircraft carrier raises critical questions regarding the long-term sustainability of Indonesian military modernization. While the hull was acquired without purchase costs, the required updates and operational support demand significant capital. Industrial partnerships are already forming to handle the technical requirements of the refit.

    What is confirmed

    • Indonesia has commissioned the former Italian carrier Giuseppe Garibaldi as the KRI Sriwijaya.
    • The vessel was acquired from Italy without cost under President Prabowo Subianto.

    Still unconfirmed

    • The modernisation of the vessel is planned to cost US$450 million.
    • Turning the aging warship into a drone-bearing force multiplier will demand steep investments in crew, escorts, and maintenance to avoid a costly white elephant.
    • Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri and Indonesian state-owned shipbuilder PT PAL Indonesia have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to modernize the carrier.
    • The vessel is intended to serve for another 15 years to strengthen maritime defense and disaster response operations.

    What to watch next

    • Finalization of the modernization contract between Fincantieri and PT PAL Indonesia
    • Allocation details for the US$450 million modernization budget
    • Announcements regarding crew training and escort vessel acquisitions
    Sources used for this update (3)
    1. www.asianmilitaryreview.com — Indonesia commissions former Italian carrier as KRI ...
    2. www.thejakartapost.com — Welcoming KRI Sriwijaya - Editorial - The Jakarta Post
    3. www.thedefensenews.com — Fincantieri and PT PAL Sign MoU to Modernize Indonesia’s ...
    confidence 90%

  8. Indonesia's New Aircraft Carrier Reaches Home Waters

    Indonesia has formally brought its first aircraft carrier, the former Italian Navy flagship ITS Giuseppe Garibaldi, into domestic waters after reflagging it as the KRI Sriwijaya. Acquired from Italy without cost under President Prabowo Subianto, the vessel is intended to serve for another 15 years to strengthen maritime defense and disaster response operations. However, the acquisition has triggered public discussion over the ultimate financial expenses required for repairs and maintenance, alongside broader questions concerning the direction of national military modernization plans.

    Why it matters

    The arrival of the vessel represents a major expansion of Indonesian naval power projection in the region. Analysts and the public continue to question how the government plans to convert the ship into a functional military asset given the pending repair costs. This acquisition aligns with broader defense ambitions under the current administration.

    What is confirmed

    • Indonesia officially commissioned its first aircraft carrier, the former Italian flagship ITS Giuseppe Garibaldi, as the KRI Sriwijaya.
    • The vessel was acquired free of charge from Italy and is intended to operate for another 15 years.

    Still unconfirmed

    • The total financial cost for necessary repairs and operational fixes remains a subject of ongoing public debate.

    What to watch next

    • Official disclosures regarding the total financial cost of repairs and operational fixes for the KRI Sriwijaya
    • Deployment plans and integration of the aircraft carrier into Indonesia's maritime defense and disaster response operations
    Sources used for this update (2)
    1. www.rferl.org — Trump Tells Iran To Make A Deal Or Surrender
    2. thediplomat.com — Indonesia Finally Has Its Aircraft Carrier. Now Comes the Hard Part.
    confidence 90%

  9. Indonesia Commissions First Aircraft Carrier, Former Italian Ship Garibaldi

    Indonesia officially commissioned its first aircraft carrier after reflagging the former Italian Navy flagship ITS Giuseppe Garibaldi as the KRI Sriwijaya on Thursday. Acquired free of charge from Italy, Jakarta plans to operate the vessel for another 15 years to bolster maritime defenses and disaster response capabilities under President Prabowo Subianto. The acquisition has sparked public debate regarding total financial costs for necessary repairs and operational fixes, alongside questions surrounding the nation's broader military modernization ambitions.

    Why it matters

    President Prabowo Subianto leads a military modernization campaign that includes acquiring the former Italian warship, which served as Italy's Navy flagship until 2011. While the ship itself cost nothing to acquire, observers note that bringing it to operational readiness will require millions in additional expenditures. This deployment introduces fixed-wing and helicopter capabilities to the Indonesian fleet.

    What is confirmed

    • Indonesia received the former Italian Navy ship ITS Giuseppe Garibaldi free of charge.
    • Indonesia commissioned the vessel as its first aircraft carrier under the name KRI Sriwijaya on Thursday.
    • Jakarta plans to continue using the ship for a further 15 years.

    Still unconfirmed

    • Repairs and operational fixes for the carrier will require millions in additional expenditures.

    What to watch next

    • Deployment details regarding the newly commissioned carrier's aircraft and helicopter capabilities
    • Official financial disclosures detailing the final cost of repairs and operational fixes
    Sources used for this update (3)
    1. en.ilsole24ore.com — Indonesia plans to continue using the Garibaldi, which it received free of charge from Italia, for a further 15 years
    2. aktualita.co — KRI Sriwijaya Commissioned: Indonesia's First Aircraft Carrier Details
    3. www.yahoo.com — Indonesia reflags a former Italian warship as its first aircraft carrier
    confidence 95%

  10. Indonesia Welcomes First Aircraft Carrier

    Indonesia has acquired its first aircraft carrier, marking a significant milestone in the military modernization campaign led by President Prabowo Subianto. The vessel is the former Italian Navy ship ITS Giuseppe Garibaldi, which has now arrived in domestic waters and received the Indonesian name KRI Sriwijaya. While the ship itself was acquired for free, the transfer has ignited widespread public debate regarding the ultimate financial cost and broader national military ambitions. Observers note that repairs and operational fixes will require millions in additional expenditures.

    Why it matters

    The incorporation of the carrier represents a major upgrade for Indonesia's naval capabilities as regional defense postures evolve. Securing the former Italian vessel bypasses the lengthy construction timeline of a brand-new warship, though refitting an aging carrier introduces steep maintenance challenges. The acquisition aligns with broader efforts to strengthen maritime patrols across the vast archipelago.

    What is confirmed

    • Indonesia has acquired its first aircraft carrier, the former Italian Navy vessel ITS Giuseppe Garibaldi.
    • The newly acquired aircraft carrier has been named KRI Sriwijaya.
    • The vessel has reached domestic Indonesian waters as part of a military upgrade.
    • The acquisition has sparked debate over the cost of repairs and national military ambitions.

    Still unconfirmed

    • Fixes and modifications for the newly acquired aircraft carrier will cost millions.

    What to watch next

    • Official disclosures detailing the total projected cost of repairs and refits for KRI Sriwijaya
    • Announcements regarding the operational deployment and home port of Indonesia's first aircraft carrier
    Sources used for this update (9)
    1. navalnews.com — Indonesia’s First Aircraft Carrier: Former Italian Ship ‘Garibaldi’ Reaches Domestic Waters
    2. The Guardian — Indonesia gets its first aircraft carrier amid debate over cost and military ambitions
    3. Bali Discovery — Indonesian Navy: Indonesia’s first aircraft carrier named KRI Sriwijaya
    4. dailyrecordnews.com — Indonesia Italy Aircraft Carrier
    5. The Maritime Executive — Indonesia Takes Delivery of a "Free" Aircraft Carrier
    6. AP News — Indonesia welcomes its first aircraft carrier, prompting debate over cost and military ambitions
    7. Bloomberg.com — Indonesia Got a Free Aircraft Carrier; Fixes Will Cost Millions
    8. Al Jazeera — Indonesia acquires first aircraft carrier amid military upgrade
    9. www.bostonherald.com — Indonesia welcomes its first aircraft carrier, prompting debate over cost and military ambitions
    confidence 100%
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