Indonesia is contemplating a purchase of a Russian Kilo-Class diesel-electric submarine, according to Indonesian Military Chief Gen. Moeldoko, cited by local news agencies. The purchase would put Indonesia ahead of her South Asian neighbors, since it would be the only country in the region to have a Kilo-Class sub.
As explained by Purnomo Yusgiantoro, Indonesia’s Defense Minister talks with Russia on the offer to sell kilo-class submarines are underway. According to him, the units would be deployed in the eastern waters which have the necessary depth.
“We would prefer the ones equipped with Club S guided missiles that could hit a target 400 kilometers away,” Purnomo added.
The country’s Navy Chief Admiral Marsetio announced at the beginning of December that an engineering team would head for Russia to get an in depth insight into Russia’s submarine portfolio.
The decision is being deliberated within the framework of boosting Indonesian naval capabilities and extending its submarine fleet to at least twelve units. The plans include two options either procuring used submarines from Russia, or buying new ones from South Korea, the priority being those armed with ballistic missiles.
Indonesia disposes of two submarines built in Germany and has recently added three new ones, constructed in cooperation with South Korea.
[mappress] Naval Today Staff, January 2, 2014; Image: Wikimedia