The Indonesian Navy (TNI AL) achieved resounding success during a torpedo firing exercise conducted in the waters near Sapudi on October 22. The drill witnessed the precise deployment of torpedoes from the submarines KRI Cakra-401 and KRI Alugoro-405, resulting in direct hits on designated targets. This exercise showcased the prowess of Indonesia’s naval forces, with multiple assets contributing to its success. Participating in this striking naval warfare exercise were the KRI Cakra-401, KRI Alugoro-405, KRI Raden Eddy Martadinata-331, KRI Soputan-923, KRI Sultan Hasanuddin-366, KRI Sultan Iskandar Muda-367, Panther anti-submarine warfare helicopters, and Scan Eagle drones. Admiral TNI Muhammad Ali, Chief of Staff of the Navy, presided over the event from the Combat Information Center (CIC) of the KRI Raden Eddy Martadinata-331. He lauded the submarine warfare training and the flawless torpedo firing, underscoring the navy’s commitment to readiness and precision.
The two submarines central to this exercise, KRI Cakra-401 and KRI Alugoro-405, each possess unique technical attributes and specialized roles within the Indonesian Navy’s fleet. KRI Cakra-401, belonging to the Cakra-class, is based on the German Type 209 model. Primarily tailored for reconnaissance and patrol missions, it is equipped with heavy SUT torpedoes, ensuring proficiency in deep-water operations and prolonged submerged capabilities, thanks to its diesel-electric propulsion system. On the other hand, KRI Alugoro-405 is part of the improved Chang Bogo class, known as the Nagapasa class. This submarine, assembled by PT PAL and launched in April 2019, holds historical significance as the first submarine ever assembled in Indonesia. The Nagapasa class represents an enhanced version of the Jang Bogo class, built through collaboration between the South Korean Daewoo Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering (DMSE) and Indonesia’s PT PAL.
Indonesia’s naval journey has evolved significantly since the acquisition of twelve Whiskey-class submarines from the Soviet Union in the 1960s and 70s. Presently, the country maintains a fleet of four submarines. However, there are ambitious plans to triple this capacity to twelve vessels.
This expansion is in response to increased Chinese incursions into Indonesian waters, necessitating a strengthening of naval defenses. Jakarta is also enhancing its fleet of corvettes and frigates. The tragic sinking of KRI Nanggala (402) prompted a request from the Indonesian military for the acquisition of eight new submarines. To meet these strategic goals, Indonesia’s state-owned shipbuilder PT-PAL inked an agreement in February 2022 with the renowned French defense contractor, Naval Group, to construct two Scorpène-class conventional attack submarines in Surabaya, with the possibility of acquiring two additional vessels.
