Indonesia has finalized a nearly $1 billion agreement with Turkey to procure two Istif-class frigates. The deal was signed during a defense expo in Istanbul, reflecting Jakarta’s push to bolster its naval forces amid increasing tensions in the South China Sea.
The agreement builds on a strategic collaboration between Indonesia’s PT PAL and Turkey’s TAIS, formed last year to jointly design and produce naval vessels and support domestic shipbuilding in Indonesia. However, reports suggest the frigates might already be under construction in Turkey and redirected from the Turkish Navy for quicker delivery.
The Istif-class frigate, also known as the I-class, measures 113 meters in length and can accommodate more than 100 personnel, aerial drones, a maritime helicopter, and support boats. It features a 76mm main gun, anti-air and anti-ship missiles, torpedoes, and an electronic warfare suite.
Powered by a GE gas turbine and MTU diesel engines, the warship can reach speeds of 29 knots with an operational range of 5,700 nautical miles. Turkey plans to induct eight such vessels, with the first, TCG Istanbul (F-515), already commissioned in 2024.
