Jakarta (ANTARA) – The Indonesian Navy has prepared a 400-member crew to operate the newly acquired aircraft carrier that will be renamed KRI Sriwijaya following its official handover from Italy on September 24, military officials said on Friday.
Speaking at Pier 107 of Tanjung Priok Port in North Jakarta, designated Commander of KRI Sriwijaya Navy Captain (P) Fuad Hasan confirmed that the operational contingent comprises 100 sailors currently aboard the vessel and an additional 300 personnel who recently completed specialized training.
“These 300 Navy personnel will join after the commissioning ceremony,” Fuad said while speaking in front of the aircraft carrier which is currently still named the Italian Navy’s Giuseppe Garibaldi.
The incoming 300-member group underwent phased instruction at the Fleet Command I (Koarmada I) Training Command in Jakarta. The coursework covered theoretical aircraft carrier operations as well as standard onboard duty procedures and protocols.
Following the formal handover, the newly trained contingent will join the 100 Navy personnel already aboard the Giuseppe Garibaldi, who have been receiving operational training.
“Our total crew will be 400 people, and this includes female soldiers—members of the Women’s Navy Corps,” Fuad said.
Related news: Aircraft carrier Giuseppe Garibaldi enters Indonesian waters
The initial group of 100 Indonesian sailors previously operated the vessel alongside around 300 Italian Navy personnel during its voyage from Italy to Indonesia.
Prior to the transit, Fuad and his team underwent a month-long training program at Fleet Command II (Koarmada II) in Surabaya, followed by a one-month familiarization period at the Italian Navy base in Taranto.
The joint-crewing arrangement with Italian Navy personnel during the voyage also served as practical training for the Indonesian personnel in operating the vessel.
The Giuseppe Garibaldi currently sails under the Italian flag and is commanded by Captain Marco Guerriero. The vessel is scheduled to be officially handed over to the Indonesian government on September 24, 2026.
Upon formal handover to the Indonesian government on Sept. 24, the vessel’s flag will be changed from the Italian flag to the Indonesian flag, and receive its official designation as KRI Sriwijaya, and Fuad will formally assume command.
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Translator: Walda Marison, Yashinta Difa
Editor: Bayu Prasetyo
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