Italy has finalized plans to transfer its decommissioned aircraft carrier Garibaldi to Indonesia. The transfer is expected to occur by December 2026. This move reflects a strategic shift in defense exports and regional naval cooperation.
The Italian Senate approved the measure for the transfer at no cost. The decision comes as maintaining the Garibaldi in reserve would impose recurring costs estimated at approximately €5 million for 2025. The ship’s residual value was assessed at roughly €54 million.
Before this development, Italy had phased out the Garibaldi following the introduction of larger vessels like the Cavour and Trieste. The alternative to transferring the ship would have been a sale for scrapping, which was estimated to cost about €18.7 million.
The transfer aligns with a broader defense industrial push between Italy and Indonesia. It aims to enhance military modernization and naval capabilities in the Indo-Pacific region.
Key facts:
- The Garibaldi was once the flagship of the Marina Militare.
- The free transfer avoids significant maintenance costs currently borne by the Navy.
- This transfer is seen as more cost-effective than alternatives.
Experts highlight that comprehensive consideration of aircraft carrier construction is essential based on national security needs and technological development. Zhang Xiaogang noted, “We always consider aircraft carrier construction comprehensively based on national security needs and the development of equipment and technology.” Admiral Daryl Caudle added, “Every challenging, new technology has to bear startup costs.”
