Japan and Vietnam Discussed Joint Development and Joint Production of High-speed Landing Craft

27 Juli 2026

"Caimen Japan", the next-generation high-speed landing craft being developed by Japan Marine United and BMT for Japan's Self-Defense Force as the basis of their proposed joint project (image: BMT)

From July 12th to 15th, Vietnamese Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defense Giang visited Japan for the first time in five years. During this visit, I had the opportunity to speak with him directly every day, not only through a defense ministerial meeting, but also through a stroll around the National Diet building grounds and a luncheon. 

It was an opportunity to further deepen my personal relationship of trust with Minister Giang. Furthermore, through the defense ministerial meeting and luncheon, we were able to exchange views on the regional situation and have concrete discussions on how to further develop defense cooperation. 

Between our two countries, various forms of cooperation are actively taking place in the land, sea, and air forces, including high-level exchanges and people-to-people exchanges through study abroad at the National Defense Academy, as well as mutual visits of troops, port calls of naval vessels and goodwill training, and capacity-building support. 

“Caimen-Japan Fast Landing Craft” (image: Japan Marine United Corporation)

Joint production of high-speed landing craft

We welcomed the progress of this cooperation and confirmed that we will further promote bilateral and multilateral cooperation, including in the fields of peacekeeping operations and cybersecurity, and contribute together to regional peace and stability. 

In addition, regarding defense equipment and technology cooperation, we agreed to start discussions toward realizing the joint development and joint production of high-speed landing craft under the leadership of myself and Minister Giang. We also confirmed that we will further strengthen our efforts, including promoting cooperation in the defense industry. 

Vietnam is an important partner in achieving peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. In the midst of an increasingly challenging international situation, it is important for both countries to further develop their comprehensive strategic partnership and to concretize cooperation in the security field. We will continue to work to further strengthen cooperation in the defense sector. That concludes my opening remarks.

(Japan MoD)

Kapal Pendaratan Buritan Baru Rancangan Australia Selesaikan Uji Coba Pedaratan di Pantai

16 Juli 2026

Kapal pendaratan buritan/stern landing vessel (SLV) yang akan digunakan oleh USMC (photos: Seatransport)

Sebuah kapal pendaratan buritan/stern landing vessel (SLV) baru yang dirancang oleh perusahaan naval architecture Australia, Seatransport, telah menyelesaikan uji coba pendaratan pantai awal bulan ini.

Kapal Matilda 1 sepanjang 73 meter melakukan manuver pendaratan dan lepas landas di Pantai Dundee, barat daya Darwin, menurunkan landasannya ke pantai dan mempertahankan posisinya. Kemudian, kapal tersebut berhasil lepas landas dan menuju ke laut dalam waktu kurang dari 60 detik.

Seatransport mengatakan bahwa ini adalah pendaratan pantai pertama di dunia untuk SLV yang dioptimalkan untuk penggunaan militer, dan bahwa pendaratan dan lepas landas juga membuktikan kemampuan SLV di lingkungan pesisir yang menantang di mana kondisi dasar laut dan arus pasang surut yang besar memengaruhi aksesibilitas untuk kapal pendaratan landasan haluan konvensional.

Kegiatan ini dilakukan dengan personel Korps Marinir AS di atas kapal dan diamati oleh anggota Australian Defence Force (ADF).

Seminggu sebelumnya, Matilda 1 berhasil melewati uji coba sandar kering di dataran lumpur bakau Hudson Creek, sebuah jalur air muara di Darwin.

Seatransport menyatakan bahwa, selama kegiatan pendaratan di pantai dan penambatan di tempat kering, desain lambung tiga lapis SLV melindungi perlengkapan buritan dan mencegah efek hisap lambung yang memengaruhi kapal pendaratan berlandasan datar konvensional.

Kapal LSV Matilda 1 ini meskipun didesain oleh Seatransport, Australia namun pembuatannya dilakukan di galangan kapal PT Karimun Anugrah Sejati, Indonesia (infographic: Seatransport)

Matilda 1 akan dioperasikan berdasarkan perjanjian sewa tiga tahun dengan Korps Marinir AS, terutama di wilayah Asia-Pasifik.

(BairdMaritime)

KRI Teluk Sangkulirang-542 Pasca Re-Powering Bertugas Kembali di Koarmada II

15 Juni 2026

KRI Teluk Sangkulirang 524 (TSR) ketika bersanda di Lanal Mamuju (photo: Kabarsulbar)

TNI AL. Koarmada II -- Panglima Komando Armada II (Pangkoarmada II) Laksda TNI I G. P. Alit Jaya, S.H., M.Si., menerima kunjungan Sekretaris Dinas Material TNI Angkatan Laut (Sekdismatal) Kolonel Laut (T) Hindarto di Ruang Kerja Pangkoarmada II, Kamis (11/6). Kunjungan tersebut dilaksanakan dalam rangka penyerahan KRI Teluk Sangkulirang-542 yang telah selesai menjalani program re-powering oleh Dinas Material TNI Angkatan Laut guna meningkatkan kesiapan operasional kapal dalam mendukung tugas-tugas TNI Angkatan Laut.

Peninjauan ke KRI KRI Teluk Sangkulirang 524 (photos: Koarmada II)

Usai pertemuan, kegiatan dilanjutkan di geladak KRI Teluk Sangkulirang-542 yang sandar di Dermaga E Koarmada II dengan pelaksanaan tasyakuran atas selesainya program re-powering. Kegiatan tersebut menjadi ungkapan rasa syukur sekaligus simbol keberhasilan proses peningkatan kemampuan sistem penggerak kapal yang diharapkan mampu meningkatkan kesiapan dan keandalan unsur dalam mendukung pelaksanaan operasi di laut.

Pada kesempatan tersebut, Kaskoarmada II Laksma TNI Agam Endrasmoro, bersama Sekdismatal melaksanakan peninjauan langsung terhadap kondisi KRI Teluk Sangkulirang-542 pasca re-powering. Turut hadir dalam kegiatan tersebut Aslog Pangkoarmada II Kolonel Laut (T) Rudi Hermawan, dan para Kepala Satuan Kerja Koarmada II. Dengan selesainya program re-powering, KRI Teluk Sangkulirang-542 diharapkan semakin siap melaksanakan berbagai tugas operasi dan memperkuat kemampuan Koarmada II dalam menjaga kedaulatan serta keamanan wilayah perairan Indonesia.

(Koarmada II)

Eks KRI Teluk Hading-538 Akan Jadi Sasaran Tembak Rudal di Latopslagab 2026

20 April 2026

KRI Teluk Hading 538 (photo: TNI AL)

Suasana khidmat dan penuh haru menyelimuti Dermaga Baru Kodaeral VI Siang ini. Di bawah langit biru yang saksi bisu pengabdiannya, Komandan Komando Daerah TNI Angkatan Laut VI (Komandan Kodaeral VI) Laksamana Muda TNI Andi Abdul Aziz, S.H., M.M secara resmi memimpin tradisi pelepasan dan penghormatan terakhir bagi Eks Kapal Perang KRI Teluk Hading-538, kapal angkut tank legendaris ini  kini purnatugas dari jajaran alutsista TNI Angkatan Laut. Kamis (16/04/2026)

Tradisi TNI AL ini bukan sekadar seremoni perpisahan, melainkan bentuk apresiasi tertinggi atas dedikasi tanpa batas yang telah ditunjukkan oleh kapal perang ini selama puluhan tahun menjaga kedaulatan NKRI. Eks KRI Teluk Hading-538 dikenal tangguh, melintasi ribuan mil laut dalam berbagai operasi militer, misi kemanusiaan, hingga pengangkutan logistik ke pelosok negeri.

Komandan Kodaeral VI menyampaikan Penghormatan terakhir diberikan melalui jajar kehormatan sebagai simbol rasa hormat kepada "Sang Veteran Samudera". Kepergian Eks Kapal Perang KRI Teluk Hading-538 dari dermaga Kodaeral VI menandai akhir dari sebuah era, namun sejarah kegagahannya akan selalu tercatat dalam tinta emas sejarah maritim Indonesia.

"Selamat jalan, Eks Kapal Perang KRI Teluk Hading-538. Terima kasih atas darma baktimu. Jalesveva Jayamahe", ucap Komandan Kodaeral VI

Sasaran tembak rudal di Latopslagab 2026

Eks Kapal Perang KRI Teluk Hading-538 nantinya akan ditarik oleh Kapal Perang Republik Indonesia Leuser-924 menuju lautan lepas untuk dijadikan sasaran tembak dalam Latopslagab (Latihan Operasi Laut Gabungan) TNI AL Tahun 2026 guna menguji kesiapan tempur alutsista dan meningkatkan profesionalisme prajurit. 

Dalam momen yang penuh nilai heroik ini, Komandan Kodaeral VI didampingi oleh jajaran pejabat teras Kodaeral VI, di antaranya Wadan Kodaeral VI Laksamana Pertama TNI Dr. Arya Delano, S.E., M.Pd., M.Han, Para Pejabat Utama (PJU) Kodaeral VI, Dansatlinlamil-3, Para Kadis/Kasatker Kodaeral VI, Para Staf Inspektorat Kodaeral VI, dan Para Sahli Poksahli Kodaeral VI serta tim merpluq Kodaeral VI.

(TNI AL)

DBM Filipina Keluarkan Pendanaan untuk Kapal OPV dan LCU

29 Maret 2026

Filipina memesan 6 kapal OPV kelas BRP Rajah Sulayman (PS-20) (image: PDE)

Kapal Patroli Lepas Pantai/Offshore Patrol Vessel (OPV) Project

Modernisasi Angkatan Laut Filipina semakin diperkuat setelah Department of Budget and Management (DBM) mengeluarkan Surat Perintah Alokasi Khusus/Special Allotment Release Order (SARO) lainnya pada 23 Maret 2026 untuk Proyek Akuisisi Kapal Patroli Lepas Pantai (OPV).

Dana baru yang dialokasikan untuk proyek ini, yang dianggap sebagai pembayaran tonggak kelima, mencapai ₱5,79 miliar. Ini menunjukkan dukungan berkelanjutan pemerintah untuk pengembangan kemampuan angkatan laut kita.

Total dana yang telah dikeluarkan adalah ₱20,52 miliar dari total kontrak ₱30 miliar, atau hampir 75%. Ini berarti masih ada ₱9,48 miliar yang diharapkan akan dikeluarkan dalam beberapa tahun mendatang, yang difokuskan pada fase akhir proyek. Targetnya adalah menyelesaikan dan mengirimkan enam kapal pada tahun 2028.

Seiring berlanjutnya pendanaan, konstruksi dan pengiriman aktual juga terus berjalan. Kapal pertama, BRP Rajah Sulayman (PS-20), sudah beroperasi, sedangkan BRP Rajah Lakandula (PS-21) saat ini sedang menjalani uji coba laut dan akan segera dikirim ke negara ini. Meskipun kapal-kapal ini merupakan kapal multi-peran yang akan menggunakan peralatan misi dalam kontainer. Tiga dari kapal-kapal ini mungkin akan fokus pada peperangan anti-kapal selam dengan sonar array yang ditarik. (PDE)

LCU untuk kapal LPD (photo: Tesco)

Kapal Pendaratan Serbaguna (Landing Craft Utility/LCU)

Department of Budget and Management (DBM) mengeluarkan SARO (Special Allotment Release Order/Perintah Alokasi Khusus) untuk Proyek Akuisisi Kapal Pendaratan Serbaguna (LCU) Angkatan Laut Filipina pada Maret 2026.

Dengan nilai alokasi sebesar ₱320 juta, proyek ini sekarang memasuki fase pengadaan,  Angkatan Laut telah lama membutuhkan LCU untuk operasi amfibi dan logistik.

Berdasarkan berita sebelumnya, ini terkait dengan pembelian kapal yang lebih besar seperti LPD (Landing Platform Dock).

Pendanaan sebenarnya baru saja diamankan. Belum ada kontraktor resmi (belum melalui proses tender), tetapi ini adalah beberapa kandidat yang mungkin:

-Pembuat Kapal Lokal Filipina

Negara ini sudah memiliki preseden dalam membangun LCU (kelas Tagbanua). Kemungkinan membeli secara lokal atau membangun secara lokal + desain asing.

-Indonesia (PT PAL)

Membangun kapal kelas Tarlac dan kapal amfibi lainnya untuk Angkatan Laut. Salah satu kandidat terkuat karena kemitraan yang sudah ada.

(PDE)

Austal Contracts Damen as Partner for Local Construction of LST 100 Vessels for the Australian Army

08 Maret 2026

Damen Landing Ship Transport (LST) 100 (image: Damen)

On Friday, 20 February, Austal Defence Australia and Damen Shipyards Group signed a contract supporting the local construction of Landing Ship Transport (LST) 100 vessels for the Australian Defence Force. Under the agreement, Damen will provide the design and associated licences, enabling Austal to build the vessels at its Henderson shipyard in Western Australia.

The signing ceremony took place at the Australian Marine Complex Common User Facility (AMC CUF) in Henderson and was attended by representatives from industry and government, reflecting the importance of the programme for Australia’s defence and industrial capability.

The contract follows the Commonwealth of Australia’s announcement in November 2024 selecting the LST 100 as the preferred design for the Australian Defence Force’s Landing Craft Heavy (LCH) programme, following a competitive tender process.

Proven and trusted design

The LST 100 design was selected based on its proven operational credentials and successful service history. An earlier model has already been constructed and delivered, and its performance has contributed to further international adoption, including selection by NAVSEA for the United States Navy.

In recent years, defence organisations have increasingly adopted proven and in-service vessel designs as a means of reducing programme risk and accelerating delivery schedules. By building on established platforms with a demonstrated operational track record, defence organisations are able to minimise technical uncertainties, shorten development timelines, and focus on rapid capability deployment.

For Australia, the vessels will be built by Austal as part of the company’s fifteen-year Strategic Shipbuilding Agreement with the Commonwealth of Australia. A total of eight Landing Craft Heavy vessels will be delivered over a twelve-year period, with construction scheduled to commence later this year.

The vessels will be constructed in Henderson using Austal facilities and the AMC CUF, located 23 kilometres south of Perth. The complex, which already plays an important role in supporting the local economy, is undergoing major upgrades in order to be able to facilitate large-scale defence shipbuilding projects in the coming years.

Damen representatives at Henderson Shipyard, Western Australia before The Land 8710 Landing Craft Heavy (LCH) contract signing ceremony (photo: Aus DoD)

Strengthening littoral capabilities

The Landing Craft Heavy program supports the Australian Army’s contribution to the 2024 National Defence Strategy, which includes enhancing the Army’s ability to conduct agile, distributed and littoral operations as part of an integrated force. The new vessels will help enable Army to project, sustain and support land forces across Australia’s northern approaches and wider region, contributing to a more responsive and resilient national defence posture. 

Damen is proud to bring our expertise and craftsmanship to this Australian shipbuilding project, which will enhance capability, support sustainability, drive regional development, and strengthen the Australian Defence Force’s littoral capabilities. 

Wide-ranging operational role

Each vessel, measuring 100 metres by 16 metres, will be capable of transporting more than 500 tonnes of military vehicles and equipment. In addition to supporting amphibious operations, the ships will enable deployment, sustainment, logistics movements, humanitarian assistance, and disaster relief missions.

Building a strong partnership

Damen Regional Director Oceania Rabien Bahadoer said: “It has been a pleasure to work closely with Austal throughout this process. By maintaining an open, transparent, and constructive partnership, we have been able to establish a strong basis for a programme that delivers lasting value for Western Australia and Australia’s defence capability.”

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Damen Area Director Asia Pacific Michiel Hendrikx added: “We are grateful for the opportunity to work alongside Austal and our Australian partners on this important programme. Around the world, we actively seek long-term cooperation with strong local shipbuilders and industrial partners, combining shared expertise, mutual respect, and a commitment to quality. This approach allows us to contribute to sustainable national shipbuilding ecosystems while learning from our partners and growing together. We are confident that this collaboration will support the Australian Army’s operational needs for many years to come, and we are proud to be part of Australia’s shipbuilding future.”

(Damen)

Austal Awarded ~$4 billion Landing Craft Heavy Contract by Australia

21 Februari 2026

Eight, 100 metre Landing Craft Heavy vessels will be constructed by Austal in Henderson, Western Australia, based on the Damen LCT100 design (image: Austal)

Austal Limited (ASX: ASB) is pleased to announce that, in accordance with the announcements from the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence, the Hon. Richard Marles, and the Hon. Pat Conroy, Minister for Defence Industry, earlier today, Austal Defence Shipbuilding Australia Pty Ltd (Austal Defence Australia) has been awarded a ~$4 billion contract for the construction of eight Landing Craft Heavy (LCH) vessels, under the Strategic Shipbuilding Agreement (SSA) with the Commonwealth of Australia. Following the Minister’s announcement, the contract will be executed later today at Henderson; Austal will confirm its execution in a separate short announcement to the ASX thereafter.

Construction of the 100 metre Landing Craft Heavy vessels, based on the Damen LST100 design, will be undertaken using Austal facilities and the Common User Facility at Henderson in Western Australia. Construction is scheduled to commence in 2026, with the eighth and final vessel scheduled for delivery to the Commonwealth in 2038. 

Austal Limited Chief Executive Officer, Paddy Gregg, said the award of the Landing Craft Heavy contract to Austal Defence Australia under the Strategic Shipbuilding Agreement reinforced the company’s position as the Commonwealth of Australia’s sovereign shipbuilder and a trusted partner to the Australian Defence Force. This contract generates a record order book for Austal, provides a long-term demand signal for our supply chain, and provides the incentive to invest in uplifting our capability. 

“This contract represents another significant investment in Australia’s sovereign shipbuilding capability - and Austal Defence Australia is ready to deliver these highly capable vessels to support the ADF’s operational requirements,” Mr Gregg said. 

The construction of eight Landing Craft Heavy (LCH) will be held at Henderson Shipyard, Western Australia (WA) (photo: Aus DoD)

“Constructing the Landing Craft Heavy vessels at Henderson will create and develop thousands of new, skilled jobs in Western Australia and provide further opportunities for the local defence industry supply chain - Paddy Gregg, Austal Limited CEO

“While Austal’s US business has traditionally accounted for a large share of our defence order book in recent years, this contract reflects the growing strength and success of Austal’s Australian operations — and Australian industry — within the national shipbuilding and sustainment enterprise. This LCH construction contract balances out the split and provides greater geographic diversity of earnings. It also provides earnings and employment stability for the next 12 years.” 

Austal Defence Australia Executive General Manager – Strategic Shipbuilding, Gavin Stewart said Landing Craft Heavy was the second major construction contract awarded under the Strategic Shipbuilding Agreement, following the award of the $1.029 billion Landing Craft Medium design and build contract in December 2025. 

“With Landing Craft Medium and Landing Craft Heavy contracts now underway, there are outstanding opportunities for people and businesses to engage with Austal Defence Australia, and our industry and supply chain partners, to help deliver new capability for Australia. Austal Defence Australia is looking forward to expanding and developing the industrial capabilities at Henderson and beyond, into a reliable shipbuilding enterprise to support the Commonwealth’s objectives of sovereign shipbuilding capability. 

Each LST100 vessel will be able to carry up to 500 tonnes of military equipment including Abrams MBTs, HIMARS, Boxer CRVs and Redback IFVs (image: Aus DoD)

“These Programs under the Strategic Shipbuilding Agreement represent decades of continuous naval shipbuilding work, to be delivered here in Western Australia,” Mr Stewart said. 

The Landing Craft Heavy (LCH) vessels will provide the Australian Defence Force with a critical maritime capability, supporting amphibious operations, logistics, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief across Australia’s region of interest.

Key specifications: 

-Length: Approximately 100 metres (approx. 328-330 ft) 

-Beam (Width): 16 metres (52 ft 6 in) 

-Displacement: Approximately 3,900 - 4,000 tonnes 

-Capacity Examples: Over 200 embarked soldiers, plus 6 x M1A2SEP3 Abrams Tanks or 9 x Redback Infantry Fighting Vehicles 

Austal also notes that in addition, Austal USA is presently constructing up to 12 smaller Landing Craft Utility vessels for the US Navy at its Mobile, Alabama, US shipyard. 

(Austal)

Kemhan Serahkan Kembali KRI Teluk Kupang-519 ke TNI AL Usai Perbaikan Intensif

01 Februari 2026

Serah terima kembali Kapal LST KRI Teluk Kupang-519 (photos: Kemhan)

Jakarta – Kementerian Pertahanan Republik Indonesia (Kemhan RI) secara resmi menyerahkan kembali KRI Teluk Kupang-519 (KRI TKP-519) kepada TNI Angkatan Laut usai menjalani perbaikan platform secara intensif. Acara serah terima dipimpin oleh Sekretaris Badan Logistik Pertahanan (Ses Baloghan) Kemhan, Laksamana Muda TNI Mochamad Taufiq Hidayat, yang mewakili Kepala Badan Logistik Pertahanan (Kabaloghan) Kemhan, Marsekal Madya TNI Yusuf Jauhari, di Dermaga Tanjung Priok, Jakarta, Jumat (23/1/2026).

Dalam sambutan Kabaloghan Kemhan yang dibacakan oleh Ses Baloghan, mengapresiasi sinergi antara Kemhan, TNI AL, industri pertahanan dalam negeri, dan PT Tesco Indomaritim. Perbaikan yang dilakukan mencakup sektor vital, mulai dari sistem bangunan kapal, pendorong, kelistrikan, keselamatan, hingga akomodasi prajurit. Langkah ini merupakan upaya strategis untuk memastikan alutsista Indonesia selalu dalam kondisi prima.

“Kami berharap hasil perbaikan ini dapat mengembalikan performa KRI TKP-519 ke kondisi optimal, sehingga mampu mendukung pelaksanaan tugas-tugas strategis TNI AL dan memperkuat postur pertahanan laut Indonesia di berbagai medan penugasan,” ujar Ses Baloghan dalam sambutan Kabaloghan Kemhan.

Lebih lanjut, Kemhan berpesan kepada seluruh Anak Buah Kapal (ABK) KRI TKP-519 untuk senantiasa merawat kapal ini agar memiliki usia pakai yang panjang dan selalu siap tempur menjaga kedaulatan NKRI. Rangkaian acara diakhiri dengan peninjauan langsung (ship tour) oleh jajaran pejabat Kemhan dan TNI AL ke berbagai sektor kapal untuk memverifikasi hasil perbaikan. Dengan kembalinya KRI TKP-519 ke jajaran armada, diharapkan semangat Jalesveva Jayamahe semakin kokoh di lautan Nusantara.

(Kemhan)

Austal Defence Australia Awarded Landing Craft Medium Design and Build Contract

19 Desember 2025

Austal will build 18 Landing Craft Medium (LCM) for Australian Army (image: Austal)

Austal Limited (ASX: ASB) is pleased to announce that it has been awarded a $1.029 billion Design and Build Contract for Landing Craft Medium (LCM) under the Strategic Shipbuilding Agreement (SSA) signed with the Commonwealth of Australia. 

The LCM Design and Build Tasking Statement Contract appoints Austal subsidiary, Austal Defence Shipbuilding Australia Pty Ltd (Austal Defence Australia), to complete the detailed design and build 18 Landing Craft Medium (LCM) vessels at Austal’s Henderson, Western Australia, shipyard. Construction of the first LCM is scheduled to commence in 2026 with the 18th and final vessel scheduled for delivery in 2032. 

The LCM, being built for the Australian Army, will be manufactured in steel and capable of projecting loads up to 80 tonnes. 

Austal Limited CEO Paddy Gregg said the first design and build contract awarded under the SSA was a significant milestone for Austal Defence Australia, as the Commonwealth’s Strategic Shipbuilder in Western Australia. 

“This Landing Craft Medium design and build contract awarded to Austal Defence Australia is 

the first vessel construction program in the Government’s commitment to delivering continuous 

naval shipbuilding at Henderson, Western Australia, enlivening decades of opportunity for 

individuals and businesses to engage, collaborate and invest in defence programs. With these 18 Landing Craft Medium and any further vessels planned as part of the Strategic Shipbuilding pilot program, we are developing the shipbuilding capability to build larger, more complex vessels, in Henderson into the future and delivering sovereign shipbuilding capability for Australia."

Paddy Gregg, CEO, Austal Limited

Austal Defence Australia Executive General Manager – Strategic Shipbuilding, Gavin Stewart, said local industry was ready to deliver for the Australian Army.

“The Austal Defence Australia team, and our industry and supply chain partners in the Henderson Defence Precinct, across Western Australia and around the nation, are ready to deliver this important new amphibious capability for the Australian Army.”

Gavin Stewart, Executive General Manager – Strategic Shipbuilding, Austal Defence Australia.

(Austal)

Commissioning of New Landing Ship for Tonga

18 Oktober 2025

VOEA Late new landing ship of Tonga (photos: Australia in Tonga)

Supporting a safe and strong Tonga

Assistant Minister for Defence, Peter Khalil, will travel to the Kingdom of Tonga today to represent the Australian Government at the commissioning ceremony for His Majesty’s Armed Forces’ new landing craft, VOEA Late, at the Masefield Naval Base. 

Delivered under the Albanese Government’s Pacific Maritime Security Program,  will strengthen Tonga’s ability to deliver humanitarian assistance and disaster relief during times of need, as well as its ability to deter, detect and disrupt illegal maritime activities across the region.

His Majesty King Tupou VI will formally commission the vessel, and His Royal Highness the Crown Prince Tupouto’a ‘Ulukalala, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Minister for His Majesty’s Armed Forces, will also attend the ceremony.

Australia will continue to support the Tongan Royal Navy via a through-life maintenance and sustainment package, along with training for crew members to ensure the vessel’s operational readiness. 

The commissioning of VOEA Late is the latest demonstration of the enduring strength of the Australia and Tonga bilateral relationship and follows the recent signing of a Statement of Intent announcing a shared commitment to elevate ties between our two nations under the proposed ‘Kaume’a ‘Ofi’ (close trusted friendship) Partnership Agreement.

Today’s ceremony marks the vessel’s official entry into service, following its delivery and handover at Masefield Naval Base on 29 August 2025.

Quotes attributable to Assistant Minister for Defence, Peter Khalil:

“It’s an honour to attend VOEA Late’s commissioning by His Majesty King Tupou VI, and see the vessel officially transition into active service.

“Australia is proud to partner with Tonga on maritime security and disaster preparedness so we can further the close relationship between our defence forces.

“Our Pacific Maritime Security Program is a 30-year commitment to invest in maritime security partnerships throughout the Pacific and reinforce Australia’s role as the security partner of choice for our Pacific neighbours. 

“Now more than ever, we remain focused on supporting the maritime security needs of our partners in the region.” 

(Aus DoD)

Australia Delivered New Landing Craft to Tonga

29 Desember 2025

VOEA Late, a new landing craft vessel for Tonga (photos: Australia in Tonga)

Australia has successfully delivered a new landing craft vessel to Tonga today, with an official handover ceremony taking place at the Masefield Naval Base. 

The ceremony was attended by His Royal Highness Crown Prince Tupouto‘a ‘Ulukalala, Tonga's Minister for Foreign Affairs and Minister for His Majesty's Armed Forces, who received the vessel on behalf of Tonga.

The VOEA Late, provided under the Pacific Maritime Security Program (PMSP), will enhance Tonga’s humanitarian assistance and disaster relief capabilities, as well as their ability to deter, detect and disrupt illegal maritime activities in the region.

Australia will provide a comprehensive package of through-life maintenance and sustainment for the vessel, alongside training for Tonga Royal Navy crew members. 

Defence’s First Assistant Secretary Pacific Division, Susan Bodell, said the delivery highlighted Australia’s commitment to supporting our Pacific partners’ maritime security.

“Australia and Tonga share a trusted and enduring security partnership,” Ms Bodell said.

“The delivery of the new landing craft builds on decades of partnership, and upholds our shared commitment to sovereignty, security and prosperity in the Pacific.”

The delivery follows the completion of comprehensive training undertaken by Tonga Royal Navy personnel at the Australian Maritime College in Tasmania. The training equipped the crew with the necessary skills to safely operate the vessel.

The PMSP is Australia’s 30 year commitment to increase national and regional maritime security throughout the Pacific, and builds on the three decades of success in the original Pacific Patrol Boat Program.

(Aus DoD)

Ba Son Corporation Launches Amphibious Combat Transport Vessel VDC-01

22 Agustus 2025

A view of the amphibious combat transport vessel VDC-01 (photo: QDND)

PANO - Ba Son Corporation under the General Department of Defense Industry held a ceremony on August 6, in Ho Chi Minh City to launch amphibious combat transport vessel VDC-01.

The VDC-01 is a key project identified by Ba Son Corporation as strategically important to the military. The corporation has mobilized resources, specialized equipment, skilled personnel, and essential materials for the ship building. Up to date, nearly 80% of the project volume has been completed. After the launch, Ba Son Corporation will continue to collaborate with the Navy and relevant units to finalize remaining systems for formal sea trials and approval.

According to the company’s General Director Senior Colonel Mai Quoc Truong, the vessel has been built with the highest standards of operational safety and naval aesthetics.

Source said that VDC-01 similar with a Soviet-era Polnocny-class landing ship (photo: QDND)

Rear Admiral Nguyen Van Bach, Deputy Commander and Chief of Staff of the Naval Service, commended the corporation for the high-quality implementation of the project and urged it to continue coordinating closely with the Naval Service’s affiliates and relevant units. He emphasized the need to concentrate resources to ensure the vessel is completed in full conformity with approved technical specifications. He also stressed the importance of thorough preparation for crew deployment, training documentation, and experts.

In her speech, Major General Phan Thi Hoai Van, Deputy Chief of the General Department of Defense Industry, acknowledged the pro-active approach, technical competency, and sense of responsibility demonstrated by Ba Son Corporation throughout the project. She emphasized that the corporation should maintain close collaboration with the investor and related entities to complete the remaining work with the highest quality.

(QDND)

Australian Government Approves Strategic Shipbuilding Agreement with Austal

06 Agustus 2025

Landing Craft Medium for Australian Army (image: Austal)

Austal Limited (ASX: ASB) is pleased to announce that it has finalised its Strategic Shipbuilding Agreement (SSA) with the Commonwealth of Australia (“CoA” or “the Commonwealth”), which will appoint a newly created Special Purpose Vehicle and Austal subsidiary, Austal Defence Shipbuilding Australia (“Austal Defence Australia”), as the Commonwealth’s strategic shipbuilder for Tier 2 surface combatants at Henderson, Western Australia.

The Commonwealth Government has now approved the terms of the SSA. Following this approval, the formal SSA and related contract documentation are currently being prepared and will be executed imminently. This follows Austal’s announcement to ASX of the Heads of Agreement to establish the SSA on 23 November 2023.

Under the SSA, Austal Defence Australia will become the prime contractor for the build and delivery for the LAND 8710 programs - Landing Craft Medium (expected to be 18 vessels) and Landing Craft – Heavy (expected to be 8 vessels), previously announced as the pilot shipbuilding programs under the SSA. Austal and the Commonwealth are currently in discussions to finalise contractual arrangements for each of the two pilot programs and, subject to conclusion of those discussions, details of each pilot program will be announced separately.

Austal CEO Paddy Gregg said: “The government’s approval of the SSA is a defining moment for Austal. It will establish Austal Defence Australia as the Commonwealth of Australia’s strategic shipbuilder for Tier 2 vessels in Western Australia and reflects both Austal’s excellent defence shipbuilding record and the capabilities that Austal possesses to help the Australian Government to achieve its defence objectives.

“The Commonwealth seeks to ensure Australia’s Defence procurement possesses sovereignty and greater certainty and resilience across the naval ship supply chain in an increasingly complex strategic environment and in alignment with the Commonwealth’s continuous naval shipbuilding policies. Through the SSA, Austal is committed to helping the CoA meet these objectives while establishing Austal Defence Australia as the CoA’s shipbuilder of choice in WA.”

The SSA will establish a management framework and common terms through which Austal Defence Australia will deliver the Commonwealth’s key Tier 2 surface shipbuilding programs in Western Australia under shipbuilding contracts, using a variety of key contractors and suppliers including, but not limited to, Austal’s other shipbuilding entities. Shipbuilding programs under the SSA will generally be structured on a ‘Target Cost Incentive’ basis which will provide reimbursement of the SSA entity’s allowable costs plus a profit margin, which will be subject to ‘painshare/gainshare’ adjustments. The SSA will also seek to develop a robust supply chain in the Henderson shipbuilding precinct to deliver the Commonwealth’s continuous naval shipbuilding capability in Western Australia and meet strategic objectives for the development of Australian sovereign shipbuilding capability (“Strategic Objectives”).

Although details of the SSA pilot programs are still being determined, Austal anticipates that Austal Defence Australia will generate significant revenue from the SSA (for its management and delivery of the Landing Craft-Medium program) over the 8-year term of the proposed Landing Craft-Medium contract, in addition to the construction revenue that will be accrued by Austal Ships. The revenue earned by Austal Defence Australia for management and delivery of the Landing Craft – Heavy project, if awarded, remains to be determined although it is noted that this would be a substantially larger project than the Landing Craft – Medium project.

Other Strategic Objectives include the provision of timely and efficient capability acquisition to ensure Defence readiness; to deliver a sovereign and continuous naval design and shipbuilding capability that consistently supports the delivery of schedule and budget targets; and to develop the involvement of the local Supply Chain in design, build and through-life support.

“Utilising our decades of experience, Austal can contribute significant expertise to Australia’s sovereign shipbuilding base to reduce costs and improve the performance of vessels for the Australian men and women who work tirelessly to protect our shores,” Mr Gregg said.

The design and construction of the Landing Craft Medium (“LCM”) is intended to be the first program to be awarded and delivered under the SSA. The CoA and Austal expect contracts for the LCM program to be finalised in Q1 FY2026 and that these will provide for the construction of 18x LCMs for the Australian Army over eight years for a price of A$1-1.3 billion. The final vessel is expected to be scheduled for delivery in 2032.

Subject to resolution of contractual discussions, delivery of the 8 x Damen-designed LST100 Landing Craft Heavy vessels for the Australian Army, announced by the Commonwealth in November 2024, is expected to follow the Landing Craft – Medium, with the Commonwealth and Austal expected to be under contract by the end of the 2025 calendar year.

See full article Austal

Sea Trial KM ADRI XLV TA 2025 di Satangair

02 Agustus 2025

KM ADRI XLV (photos: DisbekangAD)

Acara ujicoba dan kelaikan KM ADRI XLV yang dilaksanakan di Satangair Jakarta dipimpin langsung oleh Kapusbekangad Brigjen TNI Tato Hadiyan, S.I.P., M.Han.(1/8/2025)

Turut hadir pada acara tersebut diantaranya, Kadisadaad, Kadislaikad, Irpusbekangad, Dircab Pusbekangad beserta perwira lainnya. Tujuan utama dilaksanakan seatrial ini adalah untuk memastikan kapal yang dibangun atau diperbaiki berfungsi sesuai dengan spesifikasi teknis yang telah direncanakan sebelumnya. Uji coba ini juga bertujuan untuk menguji performa kapal, termasuk kecepatan, kemampuan manuver, dan fungsi peralatan keselamatan.

Dalam sambutannya Kapusbekangad menyampaikan bahwa hasil uji coba pelaksanaan pemeliharaan oleh mitra terkait yaitu seatrial KM ADRI XLV dengan harapan mendapatkan hasil yang baik dan maksimal sehingga manfaat pekerjaan Harbaik alangair ini dapat dirasakan oleh satangair dalam kesiapan tugas pokoknya.

Kapusbekangad juga menegaskan kepada Tim uji coba agar melaksanakan tugas sesuai bidangnya masing-masing, berikan hasil yang akuntabel dari kegiatan ini sehingga dapat memberikan bahan data masukan dan evaluasi terhadap kegiatan harbaik alangair KM ADRI XLV TA 2025 yang dilaksanakan hari ini.

(PusbekangAD)

ITS Membuat Desain LCU 2500 DWT, Desain Kapal Perang Multifungsi Terbesar di TNI AD

30 Juli 2025

LCU TNI AD ADRI LIII atau no 53 (photo ssv: Yopi Tri Setadi)

ITS Perkuat Industri Pertahanan lewat Desain Kapal Perang Multifungsi Terbesar di TNI AD

Kampus ITS, ITS News — Institut Teknologi Sepuluh Nopember (ITS) kembali menorehkan prestasi dan kontribusi dalam kemajuan teknologi dalam negeri, khususnya terkait pertahanan nasional. Kali ini, tim perancang dari Departemen Teknik Sistem Perkapalan (DTSP) ITS berhasil merancang desain kapal jenis Landing Craft Utility 2.500 DWT, sekaligus menjadi kapal perang multifungsi terbesar yang dimiliki TNI Angkatan Darat (AD).

Kapal yang diberi nama ADRI LIII ini telah resmi diserahterimakan kepada pihak TNI AD pada 14 Juli 2025 lalu. Dengan panjang 102 meter dan lebar 18 meter, ADRI LIII ini dirancang untuk mampu mengangkut berbagai jenis alat utama sistem persenjataan (alutsista) hingga kapasitas 2.500 Deadweight Tonnage (DWT).

Kepala Program Studi (Prodi) Pascasarjana DTSP ITS Prof Dr Ir Agoes Santoso MSc MPhil CEng FIMarEST MRINA mengungkapkan bahwa proses penggarapan kapal ini dilaksanakan selama dua tahun, mulai 2023 hingga 2025. Dikerjakan oleh tim dari DTSP ITS yang melibatkan kolaborasi antara dosen, mahasiswa, alumni, hingga turut menggandeng partisipasi dari Politeknik Perkapalan Negeri Surabaya (PPNS).

Prof Agoes Santoso saat melakukan peninjauan uji fungsi kapal ADRI LIII yang didesainnya bersama tim ITS (photo: ITS)

Dalam mendukung proses perancangan, tim DTSP ITS telah mengembangkan spreadsheet dan database khusus yang memungkinkan secara teknis konsisten untuk diterapkan pada berbagai jenis desain kapal. “Meskipun demikian, prosesnya memerlukan kejelian untuk mengimplementasikan regulasi kelas dan standar dari Kementerian Pertahanan (Kemhan) RI,” lanjut Agoes yang bertindak sebagai desainer utama ADRI LIII ini.

Guru Besar Teknik Sistem Perkapalan ITS ini menjabarkan bahwa tahapan krusial dalam perancangan kapal terletak pada pembuatan key-plan drawings yang harus memenuhi standar guna menjamin kekuatan, kenyamanan, keselamatan, dan umur operasional kapal. Tim DTSP ITS mengerjakan seluruh proses desain, mulai dari eksterior, konstruksi, outfitting, permesinan, kelistrikan, hingga interior kapal tersebut. “ITS pun juga dilibatkan untuk mendampingi dan mengevaluasi pembangunan fisiknya sampai uji fungsi kapal,” ujarnya.

Setelah seluruh proses desain dan pembangunan fisik kapal rampung, dilakukan serangkaian uji untuk memastikan seluruh sistem dan fasilitas berjalan sesuai rencana. Pada tahap ini, seluruh alutsista yang dirancang untuk dibawa kapal, mulai dari kendaraan taktis, mobil, tank hingga perlengkapan tempur lainnya harus berhasil dimasukkan dan ditata sesuai kapasitas. “Selain itu, juga menguji performa kapal agar menjamin kenyamanan manusia di dalamnya,” imbuh Kepala Pusat Desain Kapal Perang Science Techno Park (STP) Maritim ITS tersebut.

Prof Agoes Santoso (kanan) bersama mahasiswa dan staf galangan kapal usai melakukan Inclining Test Kapal (photo: ITS)

Selanjutnya, Agoes menyampaikan bahwa TNI AD memberikan respons positif pada ADRI LIII ini dan yakin akan lebih memprioritaskan ITS untuk pekerjaan desain kapal lainnya di masa mendatang. “Fasilitas yang dibangun oleh Kemhan dapat dimanfaatkan secara maksimal berkat dukungan keahlian dari ITS yang kompeten dalam perencanaan kapal,” tegasnya meyakinkan.

Keberhasilan ini selaras dengan Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) poin ke-9, yakni Industri, Inovasi, dan Infrastruktur. Hal itu menunjukkan komitmen nyata ITS dalam mendukung inovasi dan infrastruktur industri pertahanan nasional. “Semoga hal ini dapat membuka lebih banyak peluang pengembangan kapal militer di Indonesia dan mengembangkan keilmuan di ITS,” tutup Agoes optimistis. 

(ITS)

Sudah Disetujui TNI AL, Terafulk Pamerkan Desain LST 120 Meter Baru

01 Juli 2025

Desain kapal LST 120 M ajuan Terafulk (photo: Defense Studies)

Perusahaan desain kapal swasta Indonesia, Terafulk Megantara Design, memamerkan desain Kapal Pendarat Tank (LST) 120 meter baru untuk memenuhi persyaratan modernisasi TNI AL selama Indo Defence 2025. Perusahaan tersebut membagikan rendering komputer LST baru tersebut secara eksklusif kepada Naval News.

Menurut perincian yang dibagikan kepada Naval News, desain tersebut didasarkan pada LST kelas Bintuni, yang dibangun di dalam negeri dan telah beroperasi sejak 2015, dan LST kelas Semangka yang lebih tua yang dibangun pada 1980-an oleh Galangan Kapal Korea-Tacoma (sekarang Hanjin Heavy Industries) untuk TNI AL. Terafulk menekankan bahwa LST baru tersebut menawarkan kemampuan yang lebih baik dan sangat dipengaruhi oleh masukan langsung dari TNI AL, dengan umpan balik operasional dan persyaratan khusus misi memainkan peran utama di seluruh proses desain.

Desain LST 120M dari Terafulk (image: NavalNews)

Dengan panjang 120 meter, LST 300 ton lebih berat daripada kelas Bintuni, dengan ruang penyimpanan yang lebih besar secara keseluruhan dan superstruktur yang lebih kompak. Khususnya, kapal ini memiliki hanggar khusus yang dapat menampung satu helikopter berukuran sedang, kemampuan yang tidak ada di kelas Bintuni.

Kapal ini dirancang untuk menampung hingga 15 kendaraan tempur infanteri BMP-3F, empat truk, dan 474 personel (114 awak kapal, 350 pasukan, dan 10 personel penerbangan). Terafulk juga menyatakan bahwa kapal tersebut secara teknis dapat mengangkut kendaraan tempur yang lebih berat, termasuk tank tempur utama Leopard 2 milik Angkatan Darat Indonesia.

Desain LST 120M dari Terafulk (image: Terafulk)

Kapal ini dapat membawa empat Landing Craft Vehicle and Personnel (LCVP) sepanjang 12 meter, yang masing-masing dapat mengangkut sekitar 25 prajurit yang diperlengkapi dengan lengkap. LCVP diposisikan di dek misi depan di depan anjungan, bukan di sepanjang sisi superstruktur, seperti yang terlihat di kelas Bintuni. Konfigurasi ini menyediakan lebih banyak ruang internal, memungkinkan akses tanpa halangan ke buritan dan dek helikopter, dan konon dirancang untuk menyederhanakan pengoperasian LCVP.

Propulsi disediakan oleh mesin diesel kembar, yang menghasilkan kecepatan tertinggi 16 knot dan jangkauan sekitar 6.200 mil laut, dengan daya tahan hingga 20 hari di laut. Untuk pertahanan diri, LST dilengkapi dengan dua meriam 40mm, yang juga dapat digunakan untuk dukungan tembakan angkatan laut, serta dua senapan mesin 12,7mm dan sistem umpan.

Perbandingan LST 120M dan LST 117M kelas Bintuni (image: NavalNews)

Menurut Terafulk, perusahaan telah memperoleh persetujuan Angkatan Laut untuk desain LST yang baru. Setelah produksi dimulai, Terafulk berencana tidak hanya menyediakan desain untuk galangan kapal yang berpartisipasi tetapi juga menawarkan rekomendasi terkait pembuatan kapal tentang cara membangun kapal secara paling efektif.

Naval News memahami bahwa salah satu aspek utama dari program LST yang baru adalah standardisasi. Hal ini terjadi setelah pengalaman kelas Bintuni, di mana sembilan kapal yang saat ini beroperasi—meskipun dibangun di bawah kelas yang sama—diproduksi oleh galangan kapal yang berbeda dan menunjukkan variasi dalam karakteristik dan dimensi.

Desain-desain baru kapal angkatan laut dari Terafulk (photo: Defense Studies)

Saat ini, belum ada jadwal pasti kapan pembangunan akan dimulai dan jumlah kapal yang direncanakan akan diperoleh Angkatan Laut. Sebagai catatan, TNI AL masih mengoperasikan 15 LST lama, termasuk 11 LST kelas Frosch bekas Angkatan Laut Jerman Timur yang dibangun pada tahun 1970-an.

Terafulk menyampaikan kepada Naval News bahwa mereka akan merancang kapal serbu lapis baja pesisir dan sungai baru sepanjang 28 meter, serta kapal patroli cepat sepanjang 60 meter, untuk Angkatan Laut Indonesia. Terafulk juga menyatakan bahwa mereka telah mengadakan diskusi dengan setidaknya dua pelanggan Asia Tenggara yang dirahasiakan untuk kapal pengisian bahan bakar dan kapal patroli lepas pantai (OPV) sepanjang 90 meter.

(NavalNews)