PT PAL CEO Explores Engine Replacement Opportunities for Aircraft Carrier Garibaldi

PT PAL is planning to replace the engines of the aircraft carrier ITS Giuseppe Garibaldi (C551). The study is being conducted alongside Fincantieri to evaluate replacing the four General Electric/Avio LM2500 gas turbines that currently serve as the ship’s propulsion system, which is intended to be renamed KRI Sriwijaya.

However, according to the President Director of PT PAL, Kaharuddin Djenod, this remains a study and has not yet become an official decision. “We will see which parts need improvement; one aspect is not an immediate repair, but a long-term improvement related to the powering system,” he stated at Tanjung Priok Port, North Jakarta, on Friday (18/09/202<0xA0>26).

Kaharuddin confirmed that PT PAL and Fincantieri will undertake a refurbishment of Indonesia’s first aircraft carrier. He acknowledged, however, that the current condition of the Garibaldi is already good and ready for both Military Operations (OMP) and Non-Military Operations (OMSP).

Furthermore, Kaharuddin noted that PT PAL has received an assignment from the President of the Republic of Indonesia to arm the Garibaldi. “For forest fire prevention, this is very feasible; this ship is excellent, but the refurbishment at PT PAL will include full armament,” he said.

Kaharuddin continued, “The refurbishment to be carried out at PT PAL Indonesia will aim to upgrade the vessel with more complete weaponry to make it more formidable.”