Indonesia has commissioned French shipbuilder Piriou to design and construct two specialized research vessels to bolster the nation’s oceanographic research capabilities. The order, signed on June 11, includes an ocean-going research vessel and a coastal research vessel, both funded through the $102 million KrisNA project managed by the French development agency AFD.
The new fleet will be built by Piriou Vietnam following a tender process initiated last year. This investment is part of a broader $216 million French-backed maritime initiative that also includes the modernization of four Indonesian fishing ports.
Why new research vessels are necessary
Indonesia is the world’s largest archipelago, with oceans and seas covering three-quarters of its territory. Despite this, the nation’s marine natural resources remain poorly documented, and current oceanographic research capabilities are limited, according to the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN). Arif Satria, Head of BRIN, stated that these vessels are expected to provide essential data for national priority sectors.
The acquisition marks a strategic shift toward data-driven governance of Indonesia’s “blue economy.” By prioritizing deep-sea and coastal monitoring, the government is attempting to mitigate the long-term economic risks posed by climate change and human-driven environmental degradation.
Technical specifications of the new fleet
The procurement consists of two distinct vessels designed for different operational environments. The 75-meter ocean-going research vessel (ORV) will have a gross tonnage of approximately 3,700 GT and accommodate 46 people. It is intended for deep-sea work, including marine geology, sediment analysis, and climate observation.
The smaller 30-meter coastal research vessel (CRV) will support missions in bays, river estuaries, and along the continental shelf. It will have a gross tonnage of about 290 GT and room for 12 crew members. Both ships will feature advanced scientific systems, such as multibeam bathymetric survey equipment and acoustic positioning systems for operating remotely operated vehicles (ROVs).
What happens next
Following the signing of the contract, Piriou Vietnam will move into the construction phase. Once commissioned, these vessels could substantially increase the frequency and depth of Indonesia’s maritime data collection. Analysts might expect that the enhanced ability to deploy ROVs and perform high-resolution bathymetric surveys will provide the scientific foundation needed for future environmental policy decisions regarding the country’s vast maritime territory.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is funding the construction of these research vessels?
The vessels are being financed through the KrisNA project, which is supported by the French development agency AFD with a $102 million allocation.
What are the primary missions for these ships?
The ocean-going vessel is tasked with deep-sea research, including climate observation and geological studies. The coastal vessel is designed for regional missions in river estuaries, bays, and the continental shelf.
Will the vessels carry advanced technology?
Yes, both ships will be equipped with modern scientific systems, including multibeam bathymetric survey equipment and acoustic positioning systems for the deployment of ROVs.
How do you think improved access to deep-sea data will change the way Indonesia manages its coastal resources?
