British shipbuilder Babcock has secured an agreement to sell two additional Arrowhead 140 frigate design licenses to Indonesia. This follows an initial sale of two licenses in 2021, with those vessels currently under construction for the Indonesian Navy (TNI AL).
Expanding Maritime Partnership
The agreement represents the first order under a £4 billion Maritime Partnership Programme (MPP) between Babcock and Indonesia. A Letter of Intent outlining Indonesia’s procurement goals for the MPP has been signed alongside the agreement for the two licenses, which are expected to be delivered in the coming months. The MPP, announced in November 2025, aims to jointly develop Indonesia’s maritime capabilities, encompassing its navy, fishing industry, and food security.
According to Babcock CEO David Lockwood, the partnership is “focused on advancing Indonesia’s defence and maritime capabilities, infrastructure and supply chain, while creating jobs and prosperity for local communities.” The agreement is also intended to support modernization of Indonesian shipbuilding, revitalize fishing communities, and enhance the country’s overall maritime security.
Economic Impact
The deal has garnered praise from the UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who stated it would secure “hundreds of high-skilled jobs” in Rosyth, Scotland, and strengthen the UK’s shipbuilding industry. Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto described the partnership as “very important and strategic for Indonesia,” and a “vital part of our maritime economic development.”
The Merah Putih-class frigates, built by PT PAL Indonesia, are notable for their integration of Turkish-made combat systems, including sensors and radar from ASELSAN, combat management from HAVELSAN, and missiles and Vertical Launch Systems from ROKETSAN.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Arrowhead 140 frigate?
The Arrowhead 140 is a frigate design produced by Babcock International Group. Indonesia has purchased licenses to build these frigates locally for its navy.
What is the Maritime Partnership Programme?
The Maritime Partnership Programme is a £4 billion agreement between Babcock and Indonesia to jointly develop Indonesia’s maritime capabilities, including its navy, fishing industry, and food security.
When did construction begin on the first Merah Putih-class frigate?
Construction of KRI Balaputradewa, the first Merah Putih-class frigate, began with steel cutting in December 2022.
As this partnership progresses, it remains to be seen whether further agreements will be reached under the MPP, potentially expanding Indonesia’s naval fleet and strengthening its maritime capabilities. The success of the Merah Putih program could also encourage other nations to consider Babcock’s Arrowhead 140 design for future naval acquisitions.
