Jakarta (ANTARA) - The Indonesian Navy (TNI AL) confirmed on Monday that at least two Indonesian frigates and naval aircraft will escort the country's newly acquired aircraft carrier, the ITS Giuseppe Garibaldi, as it enters Indonesian Archipelagic Sea Lane I (ALKI I) later this week.

The carrier, built by Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri, is currently en route to Jakarta following a port call in Colombo, Sri Lanka. It is expected to arrive at Tanjung Priok Port, Jakarta on September 17, 2026.

"The Garibaldi itself will be escorted by Indonesian Navy frigates upon entering ALKI I waters," Head of the Indonesian Navy Information Service First Admiral Tunggul said in Jakarta.

Tunggul noted that Italian Navy warships are currently escorting the vessel through international waters, while Indonesian forces will take over the escort mission as soon as the carrier reaches the country's maritime territory.

"There will be an escort comprising at least two Indonesian Navy frigates and aircraft from the Naval Aviation Center upon entry into Indonesian waters, alongside aerial elements conducting 'on-board' operations with the Garibaldi," Tunggul added.

Following an official welcoming ceremony in Jakarta, the aircraft carrier is scheduled for immediate deployment to support operations combating forest and land fires in Kalimantan.

Related news: Indonesian Navy to deploy Garibaldi carrier for forest fire mitigation

Translator: Walda Marison, Yashinta Difa
Editor: Bayu Prasetyo
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