PAL accelerates frigate completion, advances Scorpene submarine project for Indonesian Navy

By Ranuh Rafiani Putri

State shipbuilder PT PAL Indonesia (PAL) said it is accelerating completion of the first Merah Putih frigate, KRI Balaputradewa-322, as part of efforts to support Indonesia’s maritime defense modernization program under President Prabowo Subianto.

The company said the vessel, which was officially launched on Dec. 18, 2025, has entered the final stage of equipment installation and functional testing before deployment with the Indonesian Navy.

KRI Balaputradewa-322 is a 140-meter multirole frigate capable of speeds of up to 28 knots and designed for anti-air warfare, anti-surface warfare and anti-submarine warfare missions.

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PAL said the frigate represents part of Indonesia’s effort to strengthen domestic defense manufacturing capabilities and expand production of locally built military equipment for the Indonesian Navy.

Separately, PAL is also continuing development of the Scorpene Evolved submarine project together with French’s Naval Group under an order from Indonesia’s Defense Ministry.

The company said the submarine project has entered the pre-production stage as part of technical preparations before main construction begins. PT PAL said the stage is aimed at ensuring the project proceeds according to schedule and meets required technology and quality standards.

The Scorpene Evolved submarines are intended to strengthen the Indonesian Navy’s underwater operational capabilities and maritime deterrence capacity.

Editing by Alexander Ginting