The Indonesian Defense Ministry has confirmed that it procures two offshore patrol vessels (OPVs) from the renowned Italian shipyard, Fincantieri.
According to Brigadier General Edwin Adrian Sumantha, Head of the ministry’s Public Relations Bureau, these patrol ships, which can be upgraded to multi-purpose frigates (FREMM), will be delivered to Indonesia in October 2024 and April 2025, respectively.
The acquisition, finalized on March 28, forms part of the Indonesian Navy’s (TNI AL) ongoing efforts to modernize its defense equipment, fortifying the nation’s capacity to safeguard its sovereignty.
Sumantha emphasized that the purchase comes with a comprehensive offset package, encompassing consultation on shipyard development, long-term business strategy, physical enhancements, delivery of instructional material, and six-month training courses in Italy.
Furthermore, the technology transfer cooperation extends to managing shipyard modernization assets, management training, simulator training centers, developing training at Defense University, and forming expert teams to foster direct and indirect development opportunities.
Samantha remarked that these acquisitions are expected to enhance TNI AL’s capability to uphold regional sovereignty and significantly contribute to regional security and stability.
In its official statement on March 28, Fincantieri disclosed that the contract value for the two OPVs amounted to €1.18 billion (approximately Rp20.4 trillion).
The company will act as the main contractor to liaise between the Indonesian government and other Italian firms involved in customizing ship weapons systems, including Leonardo for weapons and combat systems customization and logistics services.
The OPVs, with a length of 143 meters, a maximum speed of 32 knots, a capacity of 170 personnel, and a cruising range of 5,000 nautical miles, are equipped with advanced weaponry such as the Aster 15 surface-to-air missile (SAM) system, DCNS Sylver A43 vertical launcher, 127 mm Vulcano cannon, 76 mm Strales cannon, 25 mm light cannon, and Leonardo’s Kronos multifunction radar.
