Italy Grants Giuseppe Garibaldi Carrier to Indonesia, Defense Ministry Prepares Crew

JAKARTA, Investortrust.id — The Indonesian Defense Ministry prepares budget allocations and naval personnel to operate the Giuseppe Garibaldi aircraft carrier after Italy confirmed the vessel will be granted to Indonesia on Monday, Feb 16, 2026 in Jakarta, a move expected to strengthen the country’s naval power projection capability. The ship will become Indonesia’s first aircraft carrier and is set to be transferred under a voluntary grant scheme from the Italian government.

The ministry clarified that the vessel is not a purchase but a grant, reducing acquisition costs while requiring adjustments to meet operational standards. Officials said funding will focus on retrofit works and system modifications tailored to the Indonesian Navy.

Defense Ministry spokesperson Brig. Gen. Rico Ricardo Sirait said, “Giuseppe Garibaldi is a grant from the Italian government.” He made the statement on Sunday, Feb 15, 2026.

Under the grant arrangement, the government does not allocate funds for procurement of the main weapon system. However, budget allocations will be directed toward retrofit processes to align the ship with Indonesian Navy operational requirements.

Rico said retrofit activities will begin only after all administrative procedures related to the grant are completed in accordance with regulations. “Retrofit will be carried out after the grant administration is fully completed in line with the rules,” he said.

Crew Preparation and Operational Readiness

Beyond financial preparations, the Defense Ministry coordinated with the Indonesian Navy, known locally as TNI AL, to prepare prospective crew members. The process included technical training and operational familiarization before the vessel officially entered service.

“Kemenhan together with the Indonesian Navy has prepared prospective crew members to sail and operate the ship, including the necessary development and training,” Rico said.

Last week, Indonesian Navy Chief of Staff Adm. Muhammad Ali expressed hope that the carrier could arrive before the 81st anniversary of the Indonesian Armed Forces. He said the acquisition process was still ongoing through negotiations.

The negotiations involved the Indonesian Navy, the Italian Navy, shipbuilder Fincantieri, and the Defense Ministry. “For Garibaldi, it is still in process. We hope it can arrive in Indonesia before the TNI anniversary,” Ali said.