Day 2 Indodefence 2025: PAL Indonesia and Republikorp shape the future of Indonesia’s maritime power.

On the second day of the Indodefence 2025 exhibition in Jakarta, Indonesia’s naval sector was brought into focus through the combined presence of state-owned shipbuilder PAL Indonesia and private company Republikorp Defence Industry Holding. This convergence between public and private industry reflects the country’s broader maritime strategy: securing its coastline, asserting sovereignty over contested islands, and integrating advanced technologies into naval platforms.
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Indodefence 2025 thus highlights the development of a diversified Indonesian naval industry, combining state-led continuity with private-sector innovation ( Picture Source: ArmyRecognition)

Representing PAL Indonesia, Chabibi Nur Thahlil, Design Division Manager, introduced a broad range of naval vessels designed to meet both military and civilian requirements. One of the main developments is the new 163-meter LPD, designed for amphibious operations, humanitarian missions, and force projection. The vessel can carry up to 651 personnel, 16 PT-91M main battle tanks, several EC 725 helicopters, and a configurable armament suite including a main naval gun, CIWS, and CMS. Featuring hybrid propulsion and a 30-day endurance, it is designed to meet the operational needs of the Indonesian armed forces. One unit has already been delivered, with a second under consideration.

Another platform on display was the LBD-class hospital ship. Measuring 124 meters in length, it is intended for disaster response, emergency operations, and mass evacuation scenarios. Equipped with specialized clinics, isolation wards, operating rooms, and a flight deck, it supports both medical and logistical functions. Nine vessels have been delivered to date, including two to the Indonesian Navy.

Among PAL Indonesia’s major projects is the MPF140 frigate, developed in cooperation with the UK’s Babcock. This 145-meter vessel is equipped for surface, air, and subsurface warfare, and integrates missile systems from MBDA, electronic warfare radars, drones, a hull-mounted sonar, and advanced command systems. Delivery of the first unit is scheduled for later this year, in line with Indonesia’s strategic autonomy goals.

PAL Indonesia also presented several systems currently under development. These include a 15-meter autonomous underwater vehicle named KSOT, designed for reconnaissance, ISR, and potentially strike missions. The platform is expected to reach depths of up to 350 meters, with an extended future endurance goal of six months. Additional systems include a man-portable laser weapon intended to counter FPV drones, and an electromagnetic surveillance solution housed in a container for UAV detection and tracking. These developments reflect the company’s investment in electronic warfare and counter-drone capabilities.

In the tactical segment, Republikorp Defence Industry Holding presented its new stealth missile patrol boat. Enrico Aryyaguna, Engineering & Planning Director, detailed this 20-meter craft equipped with over 3,200 kW of propulsion and capable of exceeding 50 knots. The vessel features a remote-controlled 12.7 mm turret at the front and supports two or four missile launchers at the stern. Designed for operations in narrow waterways, anti-piracy missions, and coastal security, it contributes to the Indonesian Navy’s rapid response capabilities.

Indodefence 2025 thus highlights the development of a diversified Indonesian naval industry, combining state-led continuity with private-sector innovation. With command ships, multi-role frigates, underwater drones, and point-defense systems on display, Indonesia signals its intention to safeguard maritime interests, strengthen regional deterrence, and expand its role in Southeast Asia’s security architecture.