The Battle of the Java Sea, 1942 - The Largest Naval Battle of World War II

The Battle of the Java Sea, fought on February 27, 1942, was the largest naval battle of World War II in conventional terms (direct fire between surface vessels across borders/combined fleets, involving dozens of warships from the combined Allied fleet/ABDACOM against the Empire of Japan). The combined Allied fleet, led by Admiral Karel Doorman, was utterly destroyed by the Imperial Japanese Navy. This defeat paved the way for Japan's unhindered occupation of Java.

HMS Exeter - under attack

Course of the Battle

Forces Involved: Allied forces consisting of American, British, Dutch, and Australian ships fought the Japanese invading fleet.

Allied Leader: Rear Admiral Karel Doorman led the combined fleet with a Cruiser and Destroyer Squadron.

Factors of Defeat: The Allies lost due to poor communications, lack of air cover, and the superiority of Japanese long-range torpedoes.

Casualties: More than 2,300 Allied soldiers were killed and many warships sank.

Historical Impact

Japan successfully landed tens of thousands of troops in Banten Bay, Indramayu, and Rembang.

The center of colonial power in Batavia fell.

The Dutch surrendered unconditionally in Kalijati, Subang, on March 8, 1942, beginning the Japanese military occupation of Indonesia.

In the Battle of the Java Sea and subsequent battles from late February to early March 1942, the Allied fleet lost almost its entire strength.

The following is a list of major Allied warships sunk in the series of battles, grouped by country:

Royal Netherlands Navy (Koninklijke Marine)

HNLMS De Ruyter: A light cruiser that served as the Allied flagship. Sunk by a Japanese torpedo, killing the fleet commander, Admiral Karel Doorman.

HNLMS De Ruyter

HNLMS Java: A light cruiser that sank by a torpedo just minutes before De Ruyter.

HNLMS Java

HNLMS Kortenaer: A destroyer that split in two and sank early in the battle after being hit by a long-range Japanese torpedo.

HNLMS Kortenaer

Royal Navy

HMS Exeter: A renowned heavy cruiser (veteran of the Battle of the River Plate against the Germans). This ship was severely damaged in the first battle and sank two days later (March 1, 1942) while attempting to escape to Australia.

HMS Exeter

HMS Electra: A destroyer that sank after a fierce close-range firefight with Japanese destroyers.

HMS Electra

HMS Encounter: A destroyer that sank alongside HMS Exeter while attempting to exit the Java Sea through the Sunda Strait.

HMS Encounter

United States Navy

USS Houston: A heavy cruiser nicknamed "The Gallant Ghost." This ship survived the main battle but heroically sank alongside HMAS Perth in the Battle of Sunda Strait (March 1, 1942) after running out of ammunition and being surrounded by the Japanese fleet.

USS Houston

USS Pope: A destroyer that sank after surviving the initial battle after being struck by Japanese carrier air attacks.

USS Pope - Under attack

USS Pope

Royal Australian Navy (RAN)

HMAS Perth: A light cruiser that sank alongside USS Houston in the Sunda Strait after a fierce last stand against Japanese landing forces.

HMAS Perth

The world's first military submarine

 The world's first military submarine used in combat was the Turtle, designed by American inventor David Bushnell in 1776. This vessel was used by American colonial forces to attack British warships during the American War of Independence.

Here's a timeline of the evolution of military submarines over time to get a more complete picture:

The First Military Submarines in History

The Turtle (1776): Uniquely shaped like a walnut or egg, this vessel was manually propelled using paddles and designed for a single crew. Its mission was to secretly attach explosives to the hulls of enemy ships underwater.

It was launched on September 7, 1776. The target was the British warship HMS Eagle. The mission failed due to the inability to attach the explosives to the hull.

The Turtle

Nautilus (1800): Designed by Robert Fulton for the French Navy, it was one of the first submarines to use an internal steering system and carry advanced explosives.

Nautilus

The First Modern Military Submarine

If the benchmark is a modern military submarine officially adopted into a structured naval fleet, then that status is held by:

USS Holland (SS-1)

USS Holland (SS-1): Officially commissioned by the United States Navy on October 12, 1900. Designed by John Philip Holland, this vessel was the world's first modern military submarine, combining an internal combustion engine (gasoline) for surface propulsion and a battery-powered electric motor for submersion. This submarine became the forerunner of the design of today's global submarine fleet.

The rejuvenation and retrofit process of the former ITS Giuseppe Garibaldi aircraft carrier by the Indonesian Ministry of Defense

 The rejuvenation and retrofit process of the former ITS Giuseppe Garibaldi aircraft carrier by the Indonesian Ministry of Defense and PT PAL Indonesia is focused on three main aspects: service life extension, operational adaptation, and integration of Indonesian Navy doctrine. Because this ship is over 40 years old, a comprehensive repair is needed so that it can be operated optimally until 2040. 

The following are the main points that will be worked on in the rejuvenation process: 

1. Modernization of Propulsion and Electrical Systems 

Replacement of Main Generators: Vital components such as old diesel generators will be replaced with new ones to ensure a stable supply of electrical power to all ship systems. 

Turbine System Overhaul: Complete maintenance (overhaul) on 4 Fiat gas turbine units to ensure the ship remains able to reach safe operational speeds in Indonesian waters. 

2. Hull Overhaul and Interior Refurbishment 

Hull Structure Repair: Corrosion check, steel plate reinforcement, and hull repainting using a special anti-marine biota coating. 

Safety Standardization: Rejuvenation of the fire suppression system, renewal of rescue facilities, and adaptation of crew accommodation space to meet the comfort and safety standards of the Indonesian Navy regulations. 

3. Combat Management System (CMS) & Weapons 

Integration TNI Communication System Installation: Installation of integrated tactical communication devices so that this aircraft carrier can be directly connected to the TNI Network Centric Warfare data network. 

New Weapon Installation: Integration of the Close-In Weapon System (CIWS) and air defense missile launchers that are aligned with the Indonesian Navy command ammunition inventory. 

Sensor and Radar Update: Replacement or improvement of the function of air/surface search radars and sonar systems to be able to detect modern threats. 

4. Flight Deck Function Modifications 

Conversion into a Helicopter/Drone Carrier: Since Indonesia does not possess a vertical takeoff and landing (STOVL) fighter jet such as the AV-8B Harrier or F-35B, the deck will be modified specifically to operate rotorcraft (AKS/transport helicopters) and tactical drones (high-powered drones). 

Air Navigation System Upgrades: Installation of helicopter landing visual aids and an aerial refueling system on the deck.

The retrofit (repair and modernization) cost of the ITS Giuseppe Garibaldi light aircraft carrier, donated by Italy to Indonesia, is estimated to range between IDR 7.2 trillion and IDR 16.8 trillion ($450 million US). The Indonesian Ministry of Defense initially set an initial estimate of IDR 7.2 trillion to IDR 7.5 trillion. However, in discussions with Commission I of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR RI), this figure has the potential to increase to IDR 16.8 trillion depending on the final specifications, technological adjustments, and installation of weapons systems requested by the Indonesian Navy.

HMS HOOD - "The Mighty Hood" Symbol of British Maritime Power

 HMS Hood (51) was an Admiral-class battlecruiser of the Royal Navy, built at the end of World War I. She was renowned as a symbol of British maritime power and held the title of the world's largest warship for 20 years after being commissioned in 1920. Due to her size and formidable reputation, the British nicknamed her "The Mighty Hood."

Here are key points about the history and specifications of HMS Hood:

Design and Characteristics: 

Type of Ship: Battlecruiser, designed to have the high speed of a cruiser but with the heavy armament of a battleship.

Main Armament: Equipped with eight 15-inch (381 mm) guns mounted in four double turrets.

Speed: Capable of a top speed of up to 32 knots (approximately 59 km/h), making it one of the fastest capital ships of its time.

Military Role and Service

Naval Diplomacy: Throughout the 1920s and 1930s, HMS Hood served as the flagship, frequently undertaking Empire Cruises to showcase British military might.

World War II: At the outbreak of war, the ship actively operated in the Atlantic Ocean, escorting convoys and hunting German warships.

Tragedy of the Battle of the Denmark Strait

Sink: HMS Hood's tragic end occurred on May 24, 1941, during the Battle of the Denmark Strait.

Cause: While attempting to engage the modern German battleship Bismarck, a single shot from the Bismarck penetrated Hood's ammunition magazine. The massive explosion instantly tore the ship apart, and Hood sank in less than three minutes.

Casualties: Of the 1,418 crew members, only three survived. This incident became one of the greatest maritime disasters and losses in the history of the Royal Navy.

The wreck of HMS Hood was finally discovered in July 2001 at a depth of approximately 2,800 meters on the seabed of the Denmark Strait.

Scorpène-class submarines - Indonesian Project (Scorpène Evolved)

The Scorpène-class submarines are a class of modern diesel-electric attack submarines jointly developed by France's Naval Group (formerly DCNS) and Spain's Navantia shipyard. These stealthy submarines are designed for multi-role operations, including anti-ship warfare, anti-submarine warfare, special operations, and intelligence gathering.

Indonesian Project (Scorpène Evolved)

Indonesia, through the Ministry of Defense, has officially activated the procurement contract for two of the latest variant of the Scorpène Evolved submarines. Through a transfer of technology (ToT) system, these submarines are being built entirely domestically by PT PAL Indonesia in Surabaya in collaboration with Naval Group.

The project has entered the initial steel cutting qualification phase and is targeted to begin full physical construction by the middle of this year.

Key Specifications & Advantages

Dimensions & Weight: Approximately 71 to 72 meters long with a displacement ranging from 1,600 to 2,000 tons.

Battery Technology: The Indonesian Scorpène Evolved variant uses advanced Lithium-Ion (LiB) Battery technology. This technology provides high power efficiency and enables underwater operations of up to 80 days.

Diving Capability & Speed: Capable of diving to depths of more than 300–350 meters with a maximum speed of over 20 knots while submerged.

Armament: Equipped with six launch tubes that can carry up to 18 heavy weapons, including a combination of torpedoes, anti-ship missiles, and sea mines.

Combat Management System: Integrates the SUBTICS automated tactical system that combines command and weapon control data, and acoustic sensors, resulting in a crew of only approximately 31 to 32.

Global Users

Besides Indonesia, which is currently developing its own, the Scorpène-class submarine has been successfully operated and built by several other maritime nations:

India: Building six submarines under Project P-75 (the final unit, INS Vaghsheer, was delivered in early 2025).

Brazil: Operating the larger Riachuelo-class Scorpène.

Malaysia: Operating two Scorpène-class submarines, delivered in 2009 and 2010.

Chile: Became the first country to order and operate this class.

History of the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI)

The Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) was officially established on June 3, 1947, by President Sukarno as an effort to unite the regular army (TRI) with the people's struggle troops. However, the TNI's birthday is commemorated every October 5, which refers to the establishment of the People's Security Army (TKR) as Indonesia's first official armed force in 1945.

The TNI's long history has seen several name and organizational changes to adapt to the country's political situation and defense tactics.

Chronology of TNI Organizational Changes: 

People's Security Agency (Badan Keamanan Rakyat - BKR) — August 22, 1945. 

After the proclamation of independence, the government did not immediately form a national army to avoid armed confrontation with Allied and Japanese forces. The government established the BKR, which was initially tasked with maintaining public order under the auspices of the Central Indonesian National Committee (KNIP). Its members are dominated by young people who were former Defenders of the Homeland (PETA), Heiho, and the Royal Netherlands East Indies Army (KNIL). 

People's Security Army (Tentara Keamanan Rakyat - TKR) — October 5, 1945 

Seeing the threat of the Dutch military who wanted to re-colonize Indonesia, President Soekarno inaugurated the TKR as the first official armed forces. 

The formation of the TKR was led by Commander-in-Chief General Soedirman and managed by Chief of General Staff Lieutenant General Oerip Soemohardjo. 

Republic of Indonesia Army (Tentara Repuplik Indonesia - TRI) — January 23, 1946 

To improve international military standardization and improve the organizational structure of state defense, the TKR was renamed TRI. Outside of TRI, at that time there were still many armed forces formed by community groups independently. 

Indonesian National Army (Tentara Nasional Indonesia - TNI) — June 3, 1947 

In order to avoid dualism of leadership and unite the Indonesian armed forces, President Soekarno merged TRI with all the people's struggle forces into a single entity called the Indonesian National Army (TNI). 

Armed Forces of the Republic of Indonesia (Angkatan Bersenjata Republik Indonesia - ABRI) — 1962 

During the Guided Democracy era, the government united the Armed Forces (AD, AL, AU) with the National Police (Polri) into a single defense and security institution called ABRI. This merger was intended for command efficiency and to minimize internal conflict. 

Returning to TNI — April 1, 1999 

Entering the reform era, the concept of the military's dual function was abolished. ABRI was officially separated again. The police institution changed to Polri which focused on domestic security/law enforcement, while the military institution returned to using the name TNI which focused fully on the national defense sector.

Shenyang J-35 and its development history

The Shenyang J-35 is a Chinese-made fifth-generation multirole stealth fighter jet manufactured by Shenyang Aircraft Corporation (SAC). This twin-engine aircraft is designed for air superiority, surface attack, and modern cyber warfare missions. The J-35's presence makes China the second country in the world after the United States to operate two types of stealth fighter jets simultaneously (along with the Chengdu J-20).

The Shenyang J-35's development history began with an independent project called the Shenyang FC-31 "Gyrfalcon," which first flew in 2012. Unlike the majority of Chinese defense equipment, which is fully funded by the military from the outset, this aircraft was initially a private investment project of Shenyang Aircraft Corporation (SAC). This decision was taken after SAC lost to Chengdu Aircraft Industry Group in the J-XX project tender (which later gave birth to the J-20 fighter jet).

The chronology of its development evolution is divided into the following key phases: 

1. FC-31 Early Prototype Era (2012–2016)

First Flight (2012): The first prototype (No. 31001) successfully made its first flight on October 31, 2012. During this phase, foreign media often referred to it as the J-31.

FC-31

Export Market Target: Since it had not yet been officially adopted by the Chinese military, the FC-31 project was initially targeted as an economical stealth fighter for the export market, targeting countries that did not have access to the F-35 from the United States.

Design Update (2016): A second, more aerodynamic version of the prototype was flight tested in December 2016, featuring improvements to the wing, radar system, and a reduced radar cross section.

2. Naval Adoption and Transformation into the J-35 (2020–2021)

Military Interest: The People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) sees great potential in the FC-31 platform as a carrier-based stealth fighter. This project officially received state funding and changed its code name to J-35. Maritime Modification (2021): On October 29, 2021, the navalized variant successfully made its maiden flight. This version brings major changes, such as a reinforced landing gear structure for extreme landings on ship decks, arresting hooks, and folding wings to save space in aircraft carrier hangars. 

3. Land Variant Expansion and Mass Production (2023–2025)

Return of the Land Variant (2023): After being successfully optimized for the sea, the Chinese military decided to create a land-based variant for the PLAAF. This variant, without heavy maritime components, first flew in September 2023. Public Debut & Mass Production (2024–2025): In November 2024, the Air Force variant was officially introduced to the public under the name J-35A at the Zhuhai Airshow. Entering mid-2025, the SAC assembly line showed that this aircraft had entered the mass production stage. In September 2025, the J-35 officially made its military parade debut alongside the J-20.

4. Full Operationalization and Official Designation (2025–2026) Electromagnetic Catapult Test: The J-35 made history as the world's first stealth fighter jet to operate using the catapult electromagnetic launch (CATOBAR) system on the Fujian aircraft carrier. Designation "Blue Shark" (2026): In April 2026, Shenyang Aircraft Corporation officially confirmed the operational designation for the carrier variant, "Blue Shark" (蓝鲨 - Lan Sha), signifying the jet's full readiness to strengthen China's far-sea fleet.

USS Carl Vinson (CVN-70)

 USS Carl Vinson (CVN-70) is the third Nimitz-class nuclear-powered aircraft carrier in the United States Navy. Named in honor of Senator Carl Vinson—dubbed the "Father of the Two-Ocean Navy"—the 333-meter-long ship functions as a floating city capable of carrying up to 5,400 personnel and dozens of combat aircraft.

USS Carl Vinson Key Specifications

Dimensions: 332.8 meters long overall, with a flight deck beam of 76.8 meters and a draft of 11.3 meters. 

Propulsion: Powered by two Westinghouse A4W nuclear reactors driving four propeller shafts. This reactor allows the ship to operate indefinitely for years without refueling. 

Speed: Capable of a maximum speed exceeding 30 knots (approximately 56 km/h). Crew Capacity: Accommodates approximately 5,000 to 5,400 personnel, including crew and air wing personnel. 

Air Wing: Capable of carrying and operating up to 90 aircraft and helicopters, including advanced fighter jets such as the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet, F-35C Lightning II, E-2D Advanced Hawkeye surveillance aircraft, and MH-60R/S helicopters. 

Weapons Systems: Equipped with RIM-116 Rolling Airframe Missile (RAM) surface-to-air missiles, Sea Sparrow missiles (NSSM), and Phalanx CIWS short-range defense systems to counter enemy missile and aircraft threats.

Brief History

Origin of Name: Named in honor of Carl Vinson, the figure dubbed the "Father of Two Ocean Navies." He became the first person in modern U.S. history to have his name attached to an aircraft carrier while he was still alive. 

Launch and Initial Commissioning: Began construction by Newport News Shipbuilding in 1975, launched in 1980, and officially entered active service with the U.S. Navy in 1982. Maiden deployment was carried out in 1983. 

Modernization: Between 2005 and 2009, the ship underwent a Refueling and Complex Overhaul (RCOH) process. This process includes nuclear refueling and upgrading radar and weapons systems so that the ship's service life can reach 50 years. 

Important Operations: Actively involved in various major military operations such as Operation Desert Strike, Operation Southern Watch, Operation Enduring Freedom, and Operation Iraqi Freedom. In 2011, the USS Carl Vinson was the location for the sea burial ceremony for Al-Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden, before his body was thrown into the Arabian Sea. Became a symbol of military diplomacy, including making a historic visit to Vietnam in 2018 (the first US aircraft carrier visit since the end of the Vietnam War). 

Popular Culture: The deck of this aircraft carrier was once used as a filming location for the iconic military aviation film, "Top Gun" (1986) starring Tom Cruise. Until now, the USS Carl Vinson remains active under the command of the US Pacific Fleet to maintain security stability in the Indo-Pacific region and globally.

The Mandhala Mk2 Combat Management System (CMS)

 The Mandhala Mk2 Combat Management System (CMS) is a maritime combat management system developed domestically by PT Len Industri (Persero) Indonesia. It serves as the control center or "brain" for Indonesian Navy warships. This intelligent system integrates all of the ship's critical instruments to provide real-time tactical information to accelerate decision-making in the battlefield.

International Standard Middleware Architecture: Utilizes middleware technology based on the OMG-DDS (Object Management Group - Data Distribution Service) standard. This protocol ensures real-time, high-speed communication of mission-critical data.

Software-Based Radar Scan Conversion: This feature provides high flexibility in radar integration. The system can connect and process data from both legacy radars and modern radar systems.

Advanced Radar Tracking Algorithm: Equipped with a target tracking algorithm that is far more precise than the first generation. This feature optimizes the identification, classification, and simultaneous tracking of potential threats. Global Electronic Chart Compatibility: Capable of displaying tactical electronic navigation charts that meet the international hydrographic standards IHO S-57 and IHO S-63.

Multipurpose Communication Protocol: Supports interconnection of standard naval devices such as Serial Interface (RS-232, RS-422, RS-485), NMEA, Synchro/Resolver Interface, and TCP/IP. This system is also adaptable to proprietary protocols from global weapons manufacturers.

Multi-Platform Compatibility: Featuring a modular architectural design, it can be implemented on various types and classes of Indonesian Navy warships.

The Indonesian Navy's special forces - Denjaka, Kopaska and Yontaifib

The main differences between Denjaka, Kopaska, and Yontaifib in the Indonesian Navy's special forces lie in their operational focus, organizational structure, and recruitment methods. Although all three are elite units of the Indonesian Navy, each has a specific role in safeguarding Indonesia's maritime sovereignty.

Here are the details of the differences between the three:

1. Denjaka (Detachment Jalamangkara)

Denjaka is the highest-ranking anti-terror unit in the Indonesian Navy, a joint and secretive unit.

Primary Function: Countering terrorism, sabotage, and piracy at sea (maritime aspects), as well as clandestine operations.

Membership: An elite force within an elite force. Its personnel are recruited from the best, highly qualified soldiers of Kopaska and Yontaifib.

Parent Organization: Marine Corps (Dankormar)

Beret: Purple (same as the Marine Corps).

DENJAKA

2. Kopaska (Frogman Command)

Kopaska is a specialized naval warfare unit (similar to the US Navy SEALs) formed in 1962.

Main Functions: Demolition/underwater detonation, sabotage of enemy bases, coastal reconnaissance prior to amphibious landings, and VIP/Presidential escorts.

Membership: Indonesian Navy (minimum 2 years of service)

Parent Organization: Directly under the Fleet Command (Armada Koarmada I, II, and III).

Beret: Red with a frog holding a trident.

KOPASKA

3. Yontaifib (Amphibious Reconnaissance Battalion)

Yontaifib is a special unit under the Marine Corps that focuses on combat intelligence and landing reconnaissance.

Main Functions: Amphibious reconnaissance, special reconnaissance (land, sea, and air), and infiltration of enemy territory before the parent force invades.

YONTAIFIB

Membership: Member of the Marine Corps (minimum 2 years of service), Possesses "Tri Media" capabilities (proficiency in water, air, and land) and serves as the primary source of recruitment for Denjaka personnel.

Parent Organization: Marine Corps (Pasmar)

Beret: The Marines' distinctive purple color, but distinguished by the use of the Tri Media Brevet.

The Indonesian Navy (TNI-AL) has begun operating Autonomous Submarines (KSOT)

 The Indonesian Navy (TNI-AL) has begun operating Autonomous Submarines (KSOT) as part of its underwater defense modernization. Indonesia is the fourth country in the world capable of producing this technology independently, after the United States, Russia, and China.

Here are the key details about Indonesia's autonomous submarines:

1. Main Model: KSOT-008

This prototype was fully developed by PT PAL Indonesia and was first widely unveiled at the 80th anniversary of the TNI on October 5, 2025.

Production: Designed and built 100% by domestic engineers, from design to software.

Entering Operations: Underwent a series of technical trials, including a successful torpedo firing test in the waters off Surabaya in late 2025.

Mass Production Target: The Ministry of Defense is targeting the acquisition of 30 KSOTs by 2026 to strengthen strategic chokepoints in Indonesian waters.

2. Advantages & Technology

The KSOT is designed as a "force multiplier" that can operate independently or alongside manned submarines.

Artificial Intelligence (AI): Supported by AI technology, it can operate autonomously, make decisions underwater without communication signals, and conduct surveillance missions.

Armament: Equipped with the Piranha lightweight torpedo launching system (324 mm caliber) or other torpedo missile variants for offensive missions.

Remote Control: Can be remotely controlled from a distance of over 320 km via the Autonomous Submarine Command Center.

3. KSOT-008 Technical Specifications

Dimensions: Length 15 meters, Width 2.2 meters

Weight: Approximately 37.28 tons

Speed: Maximum 20 knots

Endurance: Capable of submersion/operation for up to 72 hours

Range: Up to 200 nautical miles (approximately 370 km)

The KSOT is intended to improve operational efficiency, particularly during routine maritime patrols, to conserve fuel and minimize risks to personnel in vulnerable areas.

Operational Plans for the Giuseppe Garibaldi Aircraft Carrier in Indonesia

The operational plans for the Giuseppe Garibaldi in Indonesia will focus on transforming the ship into a base for combat drones (UCAVs) and helicopters, given the current limited availability of compatible fixed-wing fighter jets. The following details the air weapons plan for this ship: Unmanned Aircraft (Drone) Fleet: The Indonesian Navy's primary focus is to transform the Giuseppe Garibaldi into a drone carrier to strengthen surveillance in strategic areas such as the North Natuna Sea.

Bayraktar TB3: Indonesia reportedly plans to deploy Turkish Bayraktar TB3 drones on this ship. This drone was chosen because it has folding wings and is specifically designed for takeoff and landing on ships with short runways.

Fleet Size: There are plans to procure approximately 60 TB3 drones, some of which will be locally produced in collaboration with Baykar. Mission: These drones will be used for surveillance and precision strike missions with a flight range of up to 24-50 hours.

Operational Helicopters: This ship will carry a combination of helicopters for various mission needs:

Anti-Submarine Helicopters (ASW): For example, the TNI-AL's AS565 MBe Panther, to detect underwater threats.

Transport & Utility Helicopters: Used for logistics mobilization and humanitarian assistance in Military Operations Other Than War (OMSP) missions.

Capacity: The ship's deck can accommodate up to 18 helicopters in full configuration.

Fighter Aircraft (Fixed Wing)

The use of fighter jets on the Giuseppe Garibaldi faces technical challenges because the ship requires STOVL (Short Take-Off and Vertical Landing) capabilities.

AV-8B Harrier II: Technically, this ship was designed for the Harrier aircraft. However, procurement of this aircraft is difficult due to its global obsolescence.

Rafale: Although Indonesia acquired the Dassault Rafale, this jet requires a much longer runway or a catapult system, which the Garibaldi lacks.

F-35B: Currently, there are no official plans to deploy stealth fighter jets like the F-35B on this ship. 🥲

Next Steps: The Indonesian government is finalizing the domestic retrofit process to adapt the ship's deck and control systems to optimally operate the TB3 drone before its arrival in late 2026.

source: Tempo.co Indo Pacific Strategic Intelligence #tnial #navy #carrier #kapalinduk #angkatanlaut