At a defense convention in Istanbul, Indonesia signed a major contract to acquire two Istif-class frigates from Turkey, reinforcing its maritime strength in response to growing regional instability. The $1 billion deal aligns with both Jakarta’s defense expansion goals and Ankara’s ambition to grow its naval exports.
Indonesia’s state-owned PT PAL and Turkish firm TAIS will jointly oversee the project, following a 2023 agreement to develop military vessels and localize production. However, sources indicate the frigates may already be in production in Turkey, possibly intended for the Turkish Navy and reassigned for faster delivery to Indonesia.
The Istif-class frigates, measuring 113 meters long, are equipped with advanced weapons, including a 76mm main gun, CIWS, anti-ship and surface-to-air missiles, and torpedo launchers. Each vessel also supports UAV operations and a Seahawk-class maritime helicopter.
With a top speed of 29 knots and a range exceeding 10,000 kilometers, these warships are highly capable and versatile. Turkey aims to produce eight ships in this class, with several already in various stages of construction.
