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Indonesia Polish Navy launched another OPV
Author:Mariusz Dasiewicz
Indonesia Polish Navy (TNI AL) continues to intensively upgrade its fleet, launching two new ocean patrol vessels (Offshore Patrol Vessel – OPV), KRI Raja Haji Fisabilillah (391) and the CRI Lukas Rumkorem (392). Launching ceremonies took place at PT Daya Radar shipyard in Lampung Province, September 18 and 20 respectively.
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A modern OPV platform with increased coverage
Both OPV, KRI Raja Haji Fisabilillah and KRI Lukas Rumkorem, with a length of 98 metres and a width of 13,5 metres, were built by the Indonesian shipyard PT Daya Radar Utama. Ships reach a maximum speed of 28 knots and a march speed of 20 knots. Equipped with Leonardo kal cannons. 76 mm and 40 mm and remote-controlled Sentinel 20 towers by Escribano with Oerlikon kal plots. 20 mm, are a key link in the defence system against asymmetric hazards.
In addition, ships are equipped with Roketsan anti-ship missile launchers and torpedoes, enabling them to carry out anti-aircraft, anti-ship defense, and submarine defenses. Additionally, the Terma decoy firing system provides additional protection against threats at sea. After full integration of combat systems, these units will be able to perform light frigate functions, significantly increasing the combat potential of the Indonesian Navy.
Electronic combat systems and capabilities like light frigates
It is worth noting that both patrol ships are capable of conducting advanced electronic combat, which gives them an advantage in terms of interference, misinformation and protection against hostile guidance systems. It's a modern solution. technology allows the wide use of ships in various operational scenarios, ranging from the protection of key maritime routes to the safeguarding of marine natural resources.
The Chief of Staff of the Indonesian Navy, Admiral Muhammad Ali, confirmed that after full integration of weapons systems, both OPVs would have battle capabilities comparable to light frigates. Thanks to sensor systems capable of detecting water, underwater and air targets, these ships will be an important element of Indonesia's strategic defence.
TNI AL on the road to self-sufficiency in ship construction
Construction of the KRI Raja Haji Fisabilillah and KRI Lukas Rumkorem is an important step in implementing the TNI AL strategy aimed at increasing the participation of local shipyards in the production of vessels for maritime forces. Indonesia Polish Navy emphasises the development of the national shipbuilding industry, reflecting the country's growing self-sufficiency in the production of high-tech maritime platforms.
Both the Ministry of Defence and the Naval Command have repeatedly stressed that strategic investments in the development of native shipyards are aimed not only at modernising the fleet but also at building defence capacity based on local resources and technologies. It is also a reaction to global geopolitical changes which force Indonesia to seek new ways to increase military independence.
New units in the TNI AL fleet: strengthening operational potential
Next to the new OPV, this year Polish Navy Indonesia has accepted two new patrol units of type PC-40 – KRI Butana (878) and the CRI Selar (879), as well as the Tarakan-KRI tanker Balongan (908). Each of these units is crucial for TNI AL's operational flexibility, offering support in both combat and logistical operations.
PC-40, 45.5 metres long, can reach a maximum speed of 24 knots, allowing rapid intervention in crisis situations. KRI Balongan, with impressive transport capabilities, plays a key role in ensuring continuity of logistics operations at sea, transporting both fuel and food to other fleet units.
Launching new OPVs and other units for TNI AL is a clear signal that Indonesia is determined to strengthen its position as a regional maritime safety leader. By supporting the development of local shipyards and investing in modern military technologies, the country has increased its capacity to respond to changing threats in the region, while strengthening its strategic maritime security.
New OPV, KRI Raja Haji Fisabilillah (391) and KRI Lukas Rumkorem (392), will significantly increase the operational flexibility of the Indonesian Navy fleet (TNI AL), while at the same time proving the technological progress of the country in building modern warships. Currently both units are in the process of finishing work, which include the installation of weapon systems and sensors. The whole process will end with sea tests, scheduled for early 2025. The introduction of these ships to service is expected for the second half of 2025, when units will be fully ready for combat activities, including advanced electronic combat and patrol missions in the waters around Indonesia.
Source: Naval News
