Indonesia has welcomed its first aircraft carrier, the former Italian warship ITS Giuseppe Garibaldi, which is intended to enhance the nation's maritime security and disaster response capabilities. The vessel, now named KRI Gajah Mada, will be formally commissioned next week, making Indonesia the second Southeast Asian country to operate an aircraft carrier.
The acquisition has sparked debate regarding its necessity and cost, with estimates suggesting refurbishment and operational expenses could exceed $900 million. Critics argue that the funds might be better allocated to other military needs, such as submarines and frigates, especially given Indonesia's current fiscal challenges.