Having set plans to acquire an aircraft carrier, Indonesia is considering the Italian Garibaldi as a second-hand solution with the option of Harrier attack jets.
Janes reported that discussions are ongoing for the Garibaldi (C551) aircraft carrier that can also work as an ASW platform with helicopters. The discussions include an offer for 30 Harrier II V/STOL attack aircraft.
The new Trieste LHD will replace the Garibaldi aircraft carrier, while Harrier II will be replaced by F-35B STOVL fighter jets in the Italian Navy service.
Other than the V/STOL Harrier and helicopters, Bayraktar TB3 UCAV would also be among the contending platforms. Indonesia signed an agreement for Baykar’s Akıncı and Bayraktar TB3 in February 2025.
Bayraktar TB3 performed a landing roll with a distance of approximately 60 m during its test onboard TCG Anadolu LHD. While the total length of Garibaldi is shorter at 180 m, the runway/total length ratio would theoretically allow for seamless use of Bayraktar TB3.
