Italy Transfers Aircraft Carrier Giuseppe Garibaldi to Indonesia
The Italian Senate has approved the transfer of the aircraft carrier Giuseppe Garibaldi to Indonesia as a grant, a move poised to significantly enhance Indonesia’s naval capabilities and reshape maritime power dynamics in the Indo-Pacific region. The decision, finalized on March 25, 2026, follows a ministerial decree initiated in February 2026 and builds upon prior agreements between the two nations. Army Recognition and Janes reported on the Senate’s approval and the preceding steps in the transfer process.
Background and Rationale
The Giuseppe Garibaldi, launched in June 1983 and entering service with the Italian Navy in 1985, was placed in administrative reserve in 2024. Janes details that the transfer is financially advantageous for Italy, as maintaining the decommissioned vessel in reserve costs approximately EUR5 million (USD5.8 million) annually, primarily for electricity and security. Disposal and demolition would cost an estimated EUR18.7 million, with potential for additional expenses if a commercial buyer isn’t found for the scrap.
Strengthening Indonesia-Italy Defense Cooperation
The transfer is underpinned by a growing defense partnership between Italy and Indonesia. In October 2025, the two countries signed a letter of intent on maritime defense cooperation, followed by a joint statement in December 2025 concerning the potential transfer of the Giuseppe Garibaldi. Janes reports that Italy’s National Armaments Director, Vice Admiral Giacinto Ottaviani, personally signed these non-binding instruments.
Implications for Indonesia’s Naval Capabilities
This transfer marks a significant step for Indonesia, providing its navy with its first aircraft carrier. Defence Security Asia highlights that the acquisition will expand Indonesia’s maritime aviation and command capabilities, enhancing its operational flexibility across its vast archipelagic territory. The Indonesian government plans to allocate approximately US$450 million (RM1.71 billion) for retrofitting and adjustments to the carrier to meet its operational needs.
Broader Strategic Context
The transfer is not occurring in isolation. It is linked to a broader potential defense package that includes the acquisition of DGK submarines, Leonardo M-346 jet trainers, and ATR-72 maritime patrol aircraft. Defence Security Asia suggests this deal reshapes the naval power balance in the Indo-Pacific, embedding Italy deeper into the region’s defense supply chains and signaling Jakarta’s strategic shift towards greater blue-water capabilities.
Implementation Timeline
Implementation of the transfer is scheduled to be completed by the conclude of 2026. Army Recognition reports that the transfer will enable Indonesia to potentially integrate unmanned aerial systems into its naval operations in the future.