Indonesian Navy reinforces Fleet Modernization with locally built PC-60 patrol boats.

According to information published by the Indonesian MoD on December 17, 2024, the Chief of Staff of the Indonesian Navy (KASAL), Admiral TNI Dr. Muhammad Ali, accompanied by the Chairperson of Jalasenastri, Mrs. Fera Muhammad Ali, led the delivery and commissioning ceremony of two locally produced PC-60 class warships, KRI Hampala-880 and KRI Lumba-Lumba-881. The event took place at the KBT Sunda Kelapa Pier, North Jakarta.
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Commissioning ceremony of the two last Dorang-class patrol boats. (Picture source: Indonesian MoD)

The ceremony also marked the official appointment of the commanders for the newly commissioned vessels. Major Hariz Sandy Wibowo (Navy) was inaugurated as the commander of KRI Hampala-880, while Lieutenant Colonel Guntur Prastyawan (Navy) assumed command of KRI Lumba-Lumba-881. KRI Hampala-880 will be stationed with the Patrol Ship Unit of Lantamal XI Merauke, whereas KRI Lumba-Lumba-881 will operate under the Patrol Ship Unit of Lantamal XIII Tarakan.

The PC-60 class vessels, built by PT Caputra Mitra Sejati, are 61.20 meters long, 8.50 meters wide, and powered by two MTU 20 V 4000 M73 L engines, capable of producing 3600 kW at 2050 RPM. With a maximum speed of 24 knots and a cruising speed of 17 knots, the ships offer superior maneuverability and operational efficiency. These vessels are designed to perform a variety of critical missions, including law enforcement at sea, infiltration, exfiltration, and search and rescue (SAR) operations.

KRI Hampala-880 and KRI Lumba-Lumba-881 are equipped with modern weapon systems, including a 40mm Marlin Ilos main gun and two 12.7mm machine guns from Pindad. The armament and structural robustness allow the vessels to operate effectively in diverse maritime environments and challenging weather conditions.

The delivery and commissioning of the two PC-60 class warships underline the Indonesian Navy’s commitment to prioritizing Domestic Product Utilization (P3DN) and reducing reliance on imports. This initiative aligns with the government’s goal of enhancing the national economy and strengthening Indonesia’s position in the global defense supply chain.

Context

Indonesia has historically relied on foreign defense industries to equip its military, sourcing equipment from countries like the United States, Russia, and South Korea. This dependence has exposed Indonesia to risks such as sanctions, embargoes, and supply chain disruptions, potentially compromising national security.

In response, Indonesia has initiated efforts to strengthen its domestic defense industry. The Defense Industry Law (Law No. 16 of 2012) was enacted to reduce reliance on foreign suppliers by promoting local production and technological development. State-owned enterprises like PT Pindad, PT PAL, and PT Dirgantara Indonesia have been pivotal in producing land systems, naval vessels, and aircraft, respectively.

Despite these initiatives, challenges persist. Limited budgets and technological capabilities have hindered the domestic industry's ability to fully meet the military's needs, necessitating continued imports. For instance, in 2022, Indonesia imported defense equipment worth USD 311.21 million. Additionally, the domestic industry's limited production capacity has been a significant obstacle.