Indonesia plans Rp7.5 trillion retrofit of former Italian carrier Garibaldi

Brigadier General Rico Ricardo Sirait said the Ministry of Defense has calculated an approximate Rp7.5 trillion budget to modernise the ex-Italian Giuseppe Garibaldi carrier, which will be renamed KRI Sriwijaya. The overhaul will adapt the vessel’s air-conditioning, medical services and support facilities for Indonesia’s tropical climate and non-war missions. Admiral Muhammad Ali announced that PT Penataran Angkatan Laut and the Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri will carry out the repairs, and that Leonardo will supply additional equipment.

The carrier’s size allows it to host at least 14 helicopters, enhancing rapid response to forest fires and disaster relief across the archipelago. While the focus is on humanitarian and logistical roles, the navy retains the option to employ the ship in combat if needed. Officials expect the retrofitted carrier to remain in service for another 15 to 20 years.