The Indonesian Navy (TNI AL) has expressed official interest in acquiring Italy's decommissioned aircraft carrier ITS Giuseppe Garibaldi, with discussions currently ongoing at the "state-level" between both governments according to Mauro Manzini, Director of Sales Naval Business Unit at Fincantieri.
The 40-year-old vessel was officially decommissioned by the Italian Navy in October 2024 after nearly four decades of service, replaced by the larger Trieste-class landing helicopter dock as Italy's new flagship.
Fincantieri officials confirm the Giuseppe Garibaldi remains in good condition with approximately 15 to 20 years of remaining operational life, and can be transferred following a refit process tailored to Indonesian Navy requirements.
During a February 6, 2025 press conference in Jakarta, Indonesian Navy Chief of Staff Admiral Muhammad Ali emphasized fleet modernization needs and presented acquisition proposals including an aircraft carrier for non-combat missions to the Ministry of Defense.
The potential deal could include some of Italy's 30 AV-8B Harrier II short take-off and vertical landing fighter jets, with the carrier capable of accommodating 18 helicopters or 16 AV-8B aircraft according to technical specifications.
