Indonesia has officially commenced the construction of its second “Merah Putih” frigate. The keel-laying ceremony, a pivotal milestone in shipbuilding, took place at PT PAL Indonesia’s facilities in Surabaya, marking a noteworthy acceleration in the nation’s ambitious defense program.
The keel-laying ceremony for the second “Merah Putih” frigate, originally planned for March 2025, was successfully held months ahead of schedule. This event follows the steel-cutting ceremony in June 2023, an earlier milestone that initiated the construction phase for the vessel. The advancement highlights Indonesia’s growing efficiency and technical prowess in shipbuilding, underscoring its determination to modernize the Indonesian Navy (Tentara Nasional Indonesia-Angkatan Laut, TNI-AL).
The first “Merah Putih” frigate saw its keel-laying ceremony in August 2022 after its steel-cutting ceremony in December 2022, also conducted at PT PAL Indonesia’s Surabaya shipyard. Together, these developments signify substantial progress in Indonesia’s defense modernization drive.
The construction of the two “Merah Putih” frigates is part of Indonesia’s broader initiative to modernize its naval fleet and elevate its defense industry capabilities. The program is designed to achieve dual objectives: enhance the operational readiness of the Indonesian Navy and foster local expertise in building advanced warships.
These ships will serve as a formidable addition to Indonesia’s maritime defense, aligning with the government’s vision of securing its vast maritime domain. The acquisition, supported by a collaborative agreement with British defense firm Babcock, reflects Indonesia’s commitment to integrating cutting-edge technology and expanding its indigenous defense production capabilities.
The “Merah Putih” frigates are based on the Arrowhead 140 (AH 140) design developed by Babcock. Known for its versatility and advanced capabilities, the AH 140 design also serves as the foundation for the British Royal Navy’s Type 31 frigate program. Indonesia became the first export customer for the design, showcasing its strategic foresight in selecting a proven and adaptable platform.
Measuring 138.7 meters in length and displacing 5,700 tons, the AH 140 frigate is the largest and heaviest frigate in Southeast Asia. It is equipped to accommodate up to 160 crew members, though it can operate efficiently with a minimum crew of 100 personnel. The frigate also boasts a top speed of 28 knots and an impressive cruising range of 9,000 nautical miles at 18 knots, enabling it to perform a range of missions across Indonesia’s extensive maritime territory.
Under the agreement between PT PAL and Babcock, the AH 140 design was modified to meet Indonesia’s specific operational requirements. The modifications reflect Indonesia’s unique maritime defense needs, given its vast archipelagic geography and strategic location in Southeast Asia.
Each “Merah Putih” frigate is equipped to carry a medium-sized helicopter, enhancing its versatility in search and rescue operations, anti-submarine warfare, and maritime surveillance. Additionally, the frigates are armed with an array of advanced weaponry:
- 24 Vertical Launch Systems (VLS): Medium-range surface-to-air missiles (SAM).
- 32 VLS: Long-range SAMs for enhanced air defense.
- 16 VLS: Long-range surface-to-surface missiles for offensive capabilities.
- Two 76mm cannons: Ideal for engaging aerial and surface targets.
Millennium Gun Close-In Weapon System (CIWS): Provides close-range defense against missiles and other threats.
The inclusion of these systems ensures the “Merah Putih” frigates are among the most heavily armed and technologically sophisticated warships in Southeast Asia.
PT PAL Indonesia, a state-owned enterprise, has played a pivotal role in realizing the country’s naval modernization aspirations. The shipyard, based in Surabaya, has emerged as a cornerstone of Indonesia’s efforts to develop a self-reliant defense industry.
Since signing the contract for the acquisition of the two “Merah Putih” frigates on April 30, 2020, PT PAL has worked closely with Babcock to implement technology transfer and capability-building measures. This collaboration has enabled PT PAL to enhance its shipbuilding expertise and establish itself as a regional leader in the construction of advanced warships.
The keel-laying ceremonies for both the first and second frigates highlight PT PAL’s capacity to handle complex projects on schedule, a critical factor in meeting Indonesia’s defense objectives.
The “Merah Putih” frigates are expected to be delivered by 2026, signaling a new era for the Indonesian Navy. These state-of-the-art vessels will significantly bolster Indonesia’s maritime defense capabilities, ensuring it can effectively patrol and secure its territorial waters against emerging threats.
As Southeast Asia’s largest archipelagic nation, Indonesia faces unique maritime challenges, including piracy, illegal fishing, and territorial disputes in the South China Sea. The advanced capabilities of the “Merah Putih” frigates position Indonesia as a stronger maritime force, enhancing its ability to safeguard its sovereignty and participate in regional security initiatives.
The “Merah Putih” frigates will also have implications for Southeast Asia’s broader security dynamics. As the largest and most heavily armed frigates in the region, they set a new benchmark for naval capabilities. This development may influence other nations in the region to pursue similar modernization efforts, potentially altering the balance of power in Southeast Asia.
Indonesia’s investment in advanced frigates also demonstrates its commitment to contributing to regional stability. By equipping its navy with cutting-edge platforms, Indonesia strengthens its ability to collaborate with allies in joint exercises, anti-piracy operations, and humanitarian missions.
The construction of the “Merah Putih” frigates is more than a demonstration of technological progress; it reflects Indonesia’s long-term vision of becoming a self-reliant defense power. The collaboration with Babcock has provided Indonesia with access to advanced shipbuilding knowledge and technologies, paving the way for future indigenous designs.
As the keel is laid for the second “Merah Putih” frigate, Indonesia takes another step closer to its goal of building a modern and capable navy. This progress signals a new chapter in the nation’s maritime history, showcasing its determination to defend its waters and assert its presence on the global stage.
