How Long Could Indonesia Deploy the Garibaldi Aircraft Carrier?

The Italian-built aircraft carrier Giuseppe Garibaldi has arrived in Jakarta's Tanjung Priok Port, according to a report by TEMPO.CO. The vessel, donated by the Italian government, is currently undergoing inspection by the Indonesian Navy Chief of Staff, Admiral Muhammad Ali.

Admiral Ali expressed confidence in the carrier's continued functionality, stating that it could remain in service for another 15 to 20 years. He further emphasized that the Garibaldi would be prioritized for use in non-war military operations, particularly for disaster response due to Indonesia's frequent occurrence of natural disasters.

The aircraft carrier, measuring 180.2 meters in length and 33.4 meters in width, can carry at least 14 helicopters. This feature could expedite the distribution of logistical support to remote areas during disaster response.

While Ali did not completely rule out the possibility of deploying the Garibaldi for war purposes, he noted that a carrier is not limited to being a destroyer. Frigates could also be used as escorts, provided they possess anti-air, anti-submarine, anti-surface vessel, and anti-electronic warfare capabilities.

The Garibaldi will undergo a flag and name change upon its transfer to Indonesian ownership, officially becoming the KRI Sriwijaya. The Indonesian Navy is currently preparing a naval base in Lampung, which is geographically suitable for the carrier due to its sufficient depth and navigational access.

However, Ali indicated that the Navy is open to the possibility of the Garibaldi being stationed at other locations, including within naval units, though currently it is part of the Auxiliary Ship Unit.