Advancing Indonesia’s Maritime Technology

Indonesia, as a maritime nation with a vast oceanic territory, is strategically focused on advancing its combat ship technology to ensure national security. The country, which has the largest archipelagic state in the world, with a total land area of 1,904,569 square kilometres and a generally recognised territory (land and sea) of about 7.9 million square kilometres, embarked on maritime advancement.

The National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), in collaboration with the Hydrodynamics Research Centre and the Faculty of Marine Technology at the Sepuluh November Institute of Technology (ITS) Surabaya, is conducting new research on advanced combat ship models, particularly the Katamaran.

The Katamaran model, with its Asymmetric Catamaran hull, is meticulously crafted to elevate the vessel’s performance, particularly in demanding maritime conditions. This research is dedicated to gathering pivotal data concerning the hydrodynamic performance of the Warship Catamaran model, with a specific focus on enhancing ship efficiency and performance metrics.

During physical tests, various sensors likely collect data on parameters like wave height, ship motion, and forces acting on the model. This data is then processed and analysed digitally to understand the ship’s performance and identify areas for improvement. Additionally, Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) software is likely used to simulate the water flow around the ship model and predict its resistance and seakeeping performance. This allows for faster and more cost-effective testing compared to solely relying on physical experiments. The collaborative effort seeks to expand the knowledge base and engineering capabilities related to catamaran combat ships, contributing to the development of advanced combat ship technology.

Dian Purnamasari, Head of the Research Group, emphasised the importance of continuous research and innovation in advancing combat ship technology. The collaboration between BRIN and ITS opens doors for future cooperation in various research themes, highlighting Indonesia’s commitment to technological advancement in maritime defence.

Ketut Arya, a lecturer at the Faculty of Marine Technology, stressed the significance of collaboration in showcasing Indonesia’s research quality on the global stage. He emphasises the importance of partnerships with stakeholders to elevate Indonesia’s research standards and establish its reputation as a leader in maritime technology research.

The joint research project involved project management, model design and optimisation, ship resistance testing, seakeeping testing, and comprehensive data analysis. This culminates in the preparation of scientific papers for publication in high-impact international journals.

Trika Pitana, Dean of the ITS Faculty of Marine Technology, commended the collaboration between BRIN and ITS, noting the excellence of BRIN’s Hydrodynamics Technology Research Centre and Hydrodynamics Laboratory. He highlights the importance of collaborations in advancing Indonesia’s research capabilities and technological expertise in maritime defence.

Widjo Kongko, Head of PRTH-OREM, emphasised that this collaboration aligns with Presidential Regulation No. 78 of 2021, which mandates BRIN to lead research, development, assessment, and application of integrated invention and innovation. He expresses optimism about realising excellence in research and innovation through such collaborative efforts.

The collaboration between BRIN and ITS marks a significant milestone in Indonesia’s journey towards advancing combat ship technology through research and innovation.

The collaborative effort to expand knowledge and engineering capabilities related to catamaran combat ships is crucial for advancing combat ship technology. By combining physical testing with computational simulations, researchers can gain a comprehensive understanding of these ships’ performance characteristics, allowing for more efficient design improvements and optimisation. This approach not only enhances the current generation of catamaran combat ships but also lays the groundwork for future advancements in naval architecture and marine engineering.

In the future, the collaborative efforts between BRIN, ITS, and other stakeholders in advancing combat ship technology are poised to yield significant benefits for Indonesia’s maritime defence capabilities. The focus on research and innovation underscores Indonesia’s commitment to staying at the forefront of naval technology.

Continued research in areas such as advanced hull designs, propulsion systems, and onboard technologies will likely lead to the development of more efficient and capable combat ships. These advancements will not only enhance Indonesia’s national security but also contribute to the country’s broader maritime interests, including maritime trade, resource management, and environmental protection.