Indonesia has marked a significant milestone in its naval modernization program with the launch of KRI Balaputradewa-322, the country’s first domestically built Arrowhead 140-class frigate. Constructed at PT PAL Indonesia’s shipyard in Surabaya under license from Babcock International, the vessel underscores Jakarta’s push toward defense industrial self-reliance. Measuring 140 meters in length and displacing around 6,000 tons, the frigate is powered by a CODAD propulsion system enabling speeds of up to 28 knots. Designed for multi-domain naval warfare, Balaputradewa-322 is equipped to conduct anti-air, anti-surface, and anti-submarine operations, while also supporting electronic warfare and naval gunfire missions. Its combat systems include a 64-cell vertical launch system for air-defense and anti-ship missiles, twin 76mm naval guns, and a 35mm CIWS for close-in protection against drones and missiles. Named after a 9th-century Srivijaya king, the frigate accommodates up to 160 personnel and represents a major leap in Indonesia’s indigenous shipbuilding capability.
