KRI Bima Suci Docks in Bitung to Support Naval Maritime Diplomacy

The Goodwill and National Ambassador Diplomacy Operation is one of the Indonesian Navy’s strategic missions, prioritising maritime diplomacy through international voyages, cultural exchange, and strengthening cooperation with the navies of friendly nations. KRI Bima Suci docked at the Main Pier of the Fleet Command VIII Patrol Unit in Bitung, North Sulawesi, on Monday to support the execution of the 2026 Goodwill and National Ambassador Diplomacy Operation. Fleet Command VIII Commander Rear Admiral Dery Triesananto Suhendi, through Head of Public Relations Lieutenant Colonel Andreas Suko Riyanto, stated that the presence of KRI Bima Suci in the Fleet Command VIII area is expected to strengthen synergy between units in supporting the Indonesian Navy’s duties. He added that this is also part of implementing the policy of the Chief of Naval Staff, Admiral Muhammad Ali, to build a professional, modern, and deterrent-capable Indonesian Navy that plays an active role in maintaining regional maritime security. During its berthing in Bitung from 13 to 17 July 2026, KRI Bima Suci will hold an Open Ship event, providing the public with an opportunity to view the vessel firsthand. The ship’s arrival was welcomed by the Commander of Fleet Command VIII, represented by the Head of the Harbormaster Office, Commander Wahyu Basuki Mulyo Wibowo, along with his staff. The welcoming ceremony served as a form of support from Fleet Command VIII for the operation, which aims to strengthen friendship and maritime cooperation with friendly nations while introducing Indonesia as a maritime nation with naval strength and maritime culture on the international stage.