Indonesia signs deal for two more UK-designed frigates

Indonesia has signed an agreement paving the way for the acquisition of two additional UK-designed Arrowhead 140 frigates, as part of a wider maritime partnership programme with British defence firm Babcock.

The agreement covers the sale of two further Arrowhead 140 design licences under Indonesia’s Maritime Partnership Programme, a framework valued at up to £4 billion that aims to expand Indonesia’s naval and maritime industrial capacity. The licences are expected to be delivered over the coming months.

The move builds on Indonesia’s original purchase of two Arrowhead 140 licences in 2021, which form the basis of the locally built Merah Putih frigate class. The first ship from that programme was launched in Indonesia late last year, marking a key milestone in Jakarta’s plans to expand domestic naval shipbuilding capability.

Alongside the licence agreement, a Letter of Intent has been signed outlining Indonesia’s broader procurement ambitions under the Maritime Partnership Programme. The document was signed on behalf of Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto and Babcock chief executive David Lockwood, and is intended to enable further agreements as the partnership develops.

The Maritime Partnership Programme was formally announced in November 2025 and is designed to support Indonesia’s naval modernisation alongside wider maritime objectives, including shipbuilding infrastructure development, supply-chain growth and long-term sustainment capability.

Babcock said the programme supports Indonesia’s ambitions to strengthen maritime security while also revitalising domestic shipbuilding and supporting economic development in coastal communities.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer said the latest phase of the partnership would deliver benefits for both countries.

“No matter where I am, delivering for working people at home is always in my mind’s eye,” he said. “Today’s next phase of our partnership with Indonesia is a powerful vote of confidence in the UK, securing hundreds of high-skilled jobs right here in Rosyth and strengthening our world-class shipbuilding future.”

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto described the partnership as strategically important for the country’s long-term maritime ambitions.

“We are pleased to proceed with the maritime partnership,” he said. “This is very important and strategic for Indonesia. This is a vital part of our maritime economic development.”

Babcock chief executive David Lockwood said the agreement marked early progress under the wider framework.

“The Maritime Partnership Programme between Babcock and Indonesia is focused on advancing Indonesia’s defence and maritime capabilities, infrastructure and supply chain, while creating jobs and prosperity for local communities,” he said.

“This first work order, within this landmark framework, signals the importance of pace and progress and underpins the growing success of our Arrowhead 140 export design.”

The Arrowhead 140 frigate design, derived from the Royal Navy’s Type 31 programme, has become one of the UK’s most successful recent naval exports. In addition to Indonesia, the design has been selected by Poland and is under consideration in several other markets.

While the latest agreement does not constitute a contract for the construction of additional ships, it signals Indonesia’s intent to expand its Arrowhead-based frigate programme and reinforces the UK’s growing role in Indo-Pacific naval industrial partnerships.