Indonesia is embarking on a significant project to build its first domestically-produced aircraft carrier, seeking to strengthen its naval presence and maritime defense capabilities.
As part of this ambitious endeavor, Indonesia has reached out to India for collaboration on various aspects of aircraft carrier technology.
This request highlights Indonesia's recognition of India's growing expertise in naval shipbuilding. India recently achieved a major milestone with the commissioning of the INS Vikrant, its first indigenously designed and built aircraft carrier.
The INS Vikrant, with a reported 76% of its components sourced within India, demonstrates the country's proficiency in constructing large, complex warships and integrating crucial systems, including propulsion, combat management, and aircraft launch and recovery operations.
According to the Indian Ministry of Defence, the INS Vikrant is 262 meters long and 62 meters wide, displacing approximately 43,000 tonnes when fully loaded. It can operate a variety of fixed-wing and rotary aircraft.
While the specific details of Indonesia's request are not yet fully public, potential areas of cooperation are numerous. India could potentially provide valuable insights into the overall design process, including hull construction and structural engineering.
Sharing lessons learned from the INS Vikrant project, particularly regarding balancing cost-effectiveness, operational capability, and construction timelines, could be extremely beneficial.
Furthermore, Indonesia might be interested in specific Indian-developed technologies. This could include collaboration on gas turbine engines, and potentially even future electric propulsion systems.
India's expertise in aircraft handling on deck, including launch and recovery systems, along with established safety procedures, is also likely of interest.
India has also made significant advancements in developing its own radar, communication, and control systems, and integrating these onto a carrier platform.
Beyond the physical components of the carrier, India could provide training for Indonesian Navy personnel in aircraft carrier operations, maintenance procedures, and overall crew management. This would enhance the operational readiness of any future Indonesian carrier.
