A Turkish consortium is preparing to provide essential onboard capabilities for two Type 31 frigates being acquired by the Indonesian Navy. These vessels, which are based on Babcock’s established Arrowhead 140 multi-mission design, are currently under construction at a state-owned shipyard in Indonesia. This initiative aligns with a license agreement established in 2021 that aims to enhance the nation’s naval fleet. The construction phase saw the cutting and laying of steel for the ships in 2023 and 2024, with the Indonesian Navy expected to receive the frigates by 2029.
At a recent defense exhibit in Jakarta, it emerged that the Indonesian Type 31 frigates will be outfitted with advanced technologies from several prominent Turkish state-owned companies, specifically Aselsan, Havelsan, and Roketsan. Aselsan is set to provide a sophisticated sensor suite that integrates a multifunction radar system, a helicopter control radar, and a surveillance radar, components that are also utilized in Turkey’s I-class frigates. They will additionally supply systems for identification friend-or-foe, data links, anti-ship missile fire control, and hull-mounted sonar. Representatives from Aselsan confirmed that three contracts for this tech package have already been signed, with deliveries anticipated within three years.
Havelsan will play a crucial role as the systems integrator for the Type 31’s combat management system, a platform chosen to standardize the command and control operations across an extensive fleet of up to 40 vessels in the Indonesian Navy. Meanwhile, Roketsan will be responsible for equipping the frigates with its advanced vertical launch system, which will accommodate the ships’ principal offensive weapons.
The Type 31 frigate itself measures 139 meters (456 feet) in length and can support small inflatable boats, a maritime helicopter, and a crew of up to 190 personnel. The vessel has a versatile armament capability, allowing it to be equipped with multi-domain missiles, automatic turrets, lightweight cannons, heavy machine guns, and torpedoes for various combat scenarios, including anti-ship, anti-submarine warfare, and air defense missions. It is powered by four Rolls-Royce MTU diesel engines, each generating about 10,700 horsepower, allowing for speeds exceeding 28 knots (52 kilometers/32 miles per hour) and a range of up to 9,000 nautical miles (16,668 kilometers/10,357 miles). Upon its arrival in Indonesia, the Type 31 frigates will be designated the Merah Putih-class.
