Indonesian Frigate Order Reflects SE Asian Naval Modernization

Indonesia is bolstering its naval capabilities through a series of strategic partnerships and domestic shipbuilding initiatives. A Letter of Intent was signed last week between Indonesia and Babcock, during a visit by Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto to the United Kingdom, for licenses to construct two additional general purpose frigates based on the Arrowhead 140 design.

Expanding Naval Capacity

The Arrowhead 140 design is already being utilized for frigates commissioned by the Royal Navy and Poland. It is also being considered for potential orders from Denmark and Sweden. Currently, the first two Arrowhead 140 vessels, known as the Balaputradewa Class or Merah Putih frigates, are nearing completion at the PT PAL Indonesia shipyard in Surabaya.

Did You Know? KRI Balaputradewa (F322), the first of these frigates, was launched on December 18, 2025.

These frigates represent the first naval vessels to be built domestically in Indonesia. The license agreement with Babcock will allow PT PAL Indonesia to further develop the Arrowhead 140 design for potential export opportunities. These new frigates incorporate substantial Turkish sub-systems from Aselsan, Havelsan, and Roketsan, significantly enhancing Indonesia’s combat effectiveness.

KRI Balaputradewa (F322) at its nighttime launch on December 18, 2025 (PT PAL Indonesia)

A Broader Modernization Effort

The Merah Putih frigates are a key component of Indonesia’s £4 billion Maritime Partnership Program. This program began with the modernization of three F2000 frigates acquired from the Royal Brunei Navy. The upgrades to KRI Bung Tomo (357), KRI John Lie (F358), and KRI Usman Harun (F359) are being managed by Thales Netherlands and are scheduled for completion in 2028.

Beyond the frigates, PT PAL Indonesia is also constructing two French Scorpène Class diesel-electric attack submarines with air-independent propulsion. These will join the existing Korean-built submarines KRI Nagapasa (S403), KRI Ardadedali (S404), and KRI Alugoro (S405). Further submarine acquisitions are currently under consideration.

Expert Insight: Indonesia’s multi-faceted naval expansion reflects a strategic prioritization of maritime security, balancing domestic shipbuilding capacity with the diversification of international arms sourcing.

Geopolitical Considerations

Indonesia’s naval expansion is driven by its status as a maritime nation comprised of hundreds of islands stretching from Sumatra to New Guinea. It also responds to increasing tensions in the South China Sea, where China disputes Indonesian control of the Natuna Islands under its Nine-Dash line claim. In 2015, Indonesia implemented a policy of destroying illegal fishing vessels, including Chinese boats, though this policy has since been relaxed.

Neighboring ASEAN nations, such as the Philippines, are also increasing their naval capabilities. The Philippines’ Horizon 2 expansion program includes the recent commissioning of the BRP Diego Silangnow (FFG07) frigate and the delivery of the first of six 94m Offshore Patrol Vessels. PT PAL Indonesia is currently constructing two 124-meter landing dock platforms for the Philippines Navy.

Indonesia maintains a number of other territorial disputes with ASEAN neighbors, further justifying the need for a robust maritime defense. The nation has recently hosted naval port visits from Australia, China, Iran, Russia, the United Kingdom, and the United States, signaling a commitment to maintaining neutral relationships with major global powers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Arrowhead 140 design?

The Arrowhead 140 design is a general purpose frigate design developed by Babcock. It forms the basis of frigates ordered by the Royal Navy, Poland, and now potentially Indonesia, Denmark, and Sweden.

What is the Maritime Partnership Program?

The Maritime Partnership Program is a £4 billion Indonesian naval expansion program focused on modernizing existing vessels and developing local shipbuilding capacity, while also diversifying international sourcing of weapons and sub-systems.

What is the significance of the South China Sea disputes?

Disputes in the South China Sea, particularly China’s claims over the Natuna Islands, are a key consideration in Indonesia’s naval expansion, though Indonesia has historically sought to downplay this aspect.

As Indonesia continues to modernize its navy, how might this impact regional power dynamics and maritime security in Southeast Asia?