Indonesia is bolstering its naval capabilities with plans to build two additional frigates based on the Arrowhead 140 design, following a Letter of Intent signed with Babcock during a visit by President Prabowo Subianto to the United Kingdom. This agreement builds on an existing program to deliver the first two Arrowhead 140 vessels, known as the Merah Putih (or Red-White) frigates, from the PT PAL Indonesia shipyard in Surabaya.
Expanding Maritime Defense
KRI Balaputradewa (F322), the first of these frigates, was launched on December 18, 2025. A second frigate, presumably F323, is currently under construction approximately 18 months behind the first and both are expected to be operational before the originally planned 2029 in-service date. These vessels represent the first frigates to be built domestically in Indonesia.
The new frigates will incorporate Turkish sub-systems from Aselsan, Havelsan, and Roketsan, enhancing Indonesia’s combat capabilities. The license agreement with Babcock also allows PT PAL Indonesia to further develop the Arrowhead 140 design for potential export.
A Broader Naval Modernization
This frigate program is part of a larger, £4 billion Maritime Partnership Program. This program began with the modernization of three F2000 frigates – KRI Bung Tomo (357), KRI John Lie (F358), and KRI Usman Harun (F359) – originally built by BAE in Glasgow and acquired from the Royal Brunei Navy. Thales Netherlands is overseeing this modernization, scheduled for completion in 2028.
Beyond frigates, Indonesia is also constructing two French Scorpène Class diesel-electric attack submarines, supplementing its existing Korean-built submarines: KRI Nagapasa (S403), KRI Ardadedali (S404), and KRI Alugoro (S405). Further submarine acquisitions are under consideration.
Indonesia’s naval expansion is driven by its geography – a nation spanning hundreds of islands – and by increasing regional tensions, particularly concerning disputed maritime borders in the South China Sea. While Indonesia has historically sought to downplay these disputes, it previously implemented a policy of destroying illegal fishing vessels, including Chinese boats, though this policy has since been relaxed.
Neighboring nations, such as the Philippines, are also increasing their naval capabilities. The Philippines is currently building Malvar Class frigates and Offshore Patrol Vessels, and is also contracting PT PAL Indonesia to construct landing dock platforms.
Indonesia maintains a policy of neutrality, evidenced by recent naval port visits from Australia, China, Iran, Russia, the United Kingdom, and the United States. The country also faces other territorial disputes with ASEAN neighbors, further reinforcing the need for a robust maritime defense.
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 the Type 31 frigates ordered by the Royal Navy and by Poland, and is now being licensed to Indonesia for the construction of two additional frigates.
What is the Maritime Partnership Program?
The Maritime Partnership Program is a £4 billion Indonesian naval expansion program focused on developing local shipbuilding capacity and diversifying international sourcing of weapons and sub-systems. It includes the modernization of existing frigates and the construction of new vessels, including frigates and submarines.
What role does the South China Sea dispute play in Indonesia’s naval expansion?
While Indonesia has historically downplayed the issue, the South China Sea dispute, particularly concerning the Natuna Islands, is a consideration in its naval expansion. The need to protect its maritime borders and resources is a key driver of the program.
As Indonesia continues to modernize its navy, how might this shift in regional power dynamics influence relationships with neighboring countries and major global powers?
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