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Indonesia picks up a patrol frigate from Fincantieri PPA KRI Brawiaya
Author:Mariusz Dasiewicz
On 2 July, the Fincantieri shipyard in Muggiano (La Spezia) held the first of two patrol frigates of the type PPA (Pattugliatore Polivalente d’Altura) – KRI Brawiaya (320) — Indonesian Navy (TNI AL).
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During yesterday's event, the high-ranking representatives of both countries were present, which highlighted the strategic importance of Italian-Indonesian cooperation in the defence industry.
New generation of multi-purpose patrol frigates PPA
Multi-purpose patrol frigate KRI Brawiaya is the first of the two units of the MPCS (Multipurpose Combat Ship) project, ordered by the Government of Indonesia as the largest naval combat units in the TNI AL structure. Sister KRI Prabu Siliwangi (321) will be transmitted at a later date. The project is based on the Italian platform PPAwhich has been adapted to the operational requirements of the Indonesian naval forces. KRI Brawiaya was built in the most advanced version of the configuration – the so-called Full Combat – equipped with a full set of combat systems. In this configuration, the ship has battle capabilities comparable to frigate.
PPA patrol ships are characterized by high operational flexibility, allowing for the implementation of a wide range of tasks – from classic combat activities, patrol and rescue missions, to civilian support in crisis situations. The transferred unit has 143 metres long, reaches a speed of over 31 knots, and its crew is 171 sailors. The ship uses a CODG-type drive system, connecting diesel engines to a gas turbine, additionally assisted by an electric drive system. Full Combat PPA patrol frigates to which the KRI belongs Brawiaya (320), they achieve a full displacement of about 6400 tonnes.
The structure also includes the possibility of using RHIB boats, using both aft ramp and side cranes – which increases the unit's operational capacity on complex hydrological waters.
Strengthening TNI AL's Indo-Pacific capability
From an operational perspective, entering the KRI service Brawiaya opens new opportunities for action against Indonesia's navy, in particular in the context of securing maritime routes and national interests in the Western Indo-Pacific area. TNI AL acquires a ship capable of operating in the full spectrum of conflict, as well as flexible during peace – which in the realities of the region is important in the context of the increasing activity of maritime forces of neighbouring states.
Cooperation with the Italian shipyard Fincantieri is part of an increasingly strong trend in the acquisition of high-tech water platforms by developing countries. It is worth noting that the implementation of the contract took place in a short time, indicating the high organisational level of Fincantieri, as well as the priority treatment of the programme by the Indonesian side.
PPA multitasking patrols are an example modern approach to the construction of universal units combining features of frigates, patrol ships and support units. Their appearance in TNI AL is not only an increase in the operational potential of Indonesia's navy, but also an important signal for other fleets of war regions – especially those that consider diversifying maritime technology providers.
Written by Mariusz Dasiewicz
