The Nanggala tragedy and naval sustainability in southeast Asia (Opinion)
KRI Nanggala is the second of two Cakra-class diesel-electric submarines of the Indonesian Navy. (USN)
The tragic loss of an Indonesian submarine sends a timely reminder for all that submarines are more than a shiny plaything, and that they need lifetime investment.
The tragic sinking of the Indonesian submarine Nanggala, with the loss of all hands in April, brought into the spotlight the dismal force size of the archipelagic state’s navy, and raises questions regarding the state of readiness and safety of existing assets.
In the immediate wake of the mishap, Indonesian authorities vowed to get to the bottom of the causes behind the submarine’s loss.
However, even before the probe began properly — which would logically include conducting an underwater survey of the debris and inspection of critical evidence recovered from the seabed — the Indonesian authorities began circulating a
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Naval Warfare
-
![Spain’s F100 upgrade mirrors Aegis modernisation paths in allied navies]()
Spain’s F100 upgrade mirrors Aegis modernisation paths in allied navies
The Spanish Navy’s Alvaro de Bazan-class of air defence frigates will receive the latest Aegis Weapon System technology among other modernisations to extend the service life to 2045.
-
![UK’s Fleet Solid Support ship programme deemed on track despite steel supply concerns]()
UK’s Fleet Solid Support ship programme deemed on track despite steel supply concerns
Shipbuilders are saying the programme is going ahead on time as the government estimates 7.7 million tonnes of steel are needed for 2026 infrastructure projects.
-
![As Indonesia doubles up its order, who else is looking at the Arrowhead 140 frigate design?]()
As Indonesia doubles up its order, who else is looking at the Arrowhead 140 frigate design?
The adaptable design of Babcock’s Arrowhead 140 frigate, already selected by the UK Royal Navy and Poland, has led to more orders from Indonesia while other countries continue to weigh it up.
