Welcome to the Seaworthy Circus: Russia’s Warships Set Sail for Indonesia!
Jakarta, CNBC Indonesia – Buckle up, folks! Because in less than a week, Surabaya is set to host what’s probably the most brooding fleet of warships since… well, since the last time a Hollywood blockbuster needed a villain. Yes, Russia is deploying a fleet of warships to Indonesia from November 4th to 8th. And no, they won’t be offering complimentary vodka on board—though one can dream.
What’s the Reason Behind This Naval Circus?
This maritime visit is not just a casual boat trip. No, it’s serious business—military joint exercises are on the agenda! Coined as “Orruda 2024,” a collaboration combining the Russian word for eagle and the Indonesian symbol of Garuda. Now, combining eagles and Garuda sounds like something straight out of a fantasy RPG. I’ll bet they’re going to show those Java Sea fish some serious moves!
Confirmed Presence of Sturdy Ships
The Russian Ambassador to Indonesia, Sergey Tolchenov, took a break from looking imposing to announce the arrival of two groups of Russian ships. The first batch, composed of three corvettes, is ready for action in what marks the first Russian-Indonesian naval exercise in the endless annals of history. You heard that right—history!
Those unwilling to let the excitement simmer can expect the RF Soversheny, RF Gromky, and RF Aldar Tsydenzhapov corvettes. They are part of the Russian Pacific fleet—though with names like that, they sound like they belong in a fantasy novel rather than a naval base.
The Mighty Corvettes: A Deeper Dive
These ships, classified by NATO as frigates, carry quite a bit of horsepower beneath their metaphorical hoods. We’re talking a full deadweight of 2,200 tons and engines that pack a whopping 5,916 horses! I’d love to see someone trying to explain that at a cocktail party: “Oh, you have a yacht? Cute. I’ve got three corvettes.”
But it’s not just the power that impresses. These corvettes feature ‘stealth’ technology! So if you ever thought the seas were just for sailing, think again. There’s also a delightful collection of missiles on board. Think of it as a buffet but for attacking enemies—who said naval visits can’t be educational?
What Else Is Coming?
In addition to the corvettes, a refueling ship, a rescue tugboat named Alatau, and even a helicopter are making the trip. It’s like a floating city! Because nothing seals a friendship quite like a good ol’ naval exercise and a tugboat. I smell a new reality show in the making: “Keeping Up with the Koh Lisp!” Or was that the Korvettes? I get confused with these names.
A Word from Ambassador Tolchenov
Now, don’t go thinking this is a case of Russia trying to flex its muscles. Tolchenov made it abundantly clear that this isn’t a ploy to provoke anyone—least of all Australia, who must be watching this whole naval escapade with an eyebrow raised. Imagine being Australia: “Oh great, in addition to all our other problems, now Russia is sending ships to Indonesia. Thanks a lot, world!”
Conclusion: A Naval Balancing Act
In the end, this naval exercise seems less about antagonism and more about cooperation—a testament to bonding through water, waves, and not forgetting a good dose of mutual respect. Tolchenov underscores this, suggesting these exercises aim to bolster bilateral military cooperation. So, there you have it. Are we to witness the dawn of a new era in international relations, or will this merely send ripples across the ocean?
Whatever happens in Surabaya, let’s just hope no one tries to jump ship. The last thing we need is a comedy of errors played out on the high seas!
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Jakarta, CNBC Indonesia – Russia is set to send a fleet of warships to Indonesia, marking a significant moment in naval collaboration between the two nations. This deployment is scheduled to take place in Surabaya from November 4 to November 8, 2024.
This initiative stems from an upcoming military training exercise involving the Indonesian Navy in the strategic waters of the Java Sea. The confirmation of this pivotal agenda was made by Sergey Tolchenov, the Russian Ambassador to Indonesia, during a press briefing at his residence in Jakarta yesterday.
Tolchenov elaborated that the joint exercise, named Orruda 2024, symbolizes the partnership between the two countries—with “Orruda” meaning “eagle” in Russian and “Garuda” being a national symbol of Indonesia.
“In early November, two groups of warships from the Russian Navy will arrive in Surabaya to participate in a historic naval exercise,” he stated, emphasizing the significance of this event.
The first group will consist of three advanced corvettes, paving the way for the first-ever Russian-Indonesian naval exercise. According to the Indonesian Navy, the vessels deployed will include the RF Soversheny, RF Gromky, and RF Aldar Tsydenzhapov, all distinguished members of the Russian Pacific fleet.
These corvettes belong to the Steregushchiy-class series, specifically Project 20380, designed by the Almaz Central Naval Design Bureau. Their capabilities include enemy scouting, support for artillery landings, and stealth operations, making them highly valuable assets in modern naval warfare.
Measuring 343 feet (105 m) in length with a full deadweight of 2,200 tons, these corvettes boast impressive dimensions that earn them classification as frigates by NATO standards. They feature a sophisticated propulsion system that integrates diesel engines, enabling them to reach speeds of up to 26 knots with a range of 3,800 nautical miles at cruising speeds.
In terms of armament, Steregushchy-class ships carry an array of missile systems, including Kh-35 and 3M-54 Club missiles, alongside an integrated Kashtan anti-aircraft defense system. Moreover, the newest iterations of these fleets might include advanced systems like the SAM REDUT-K.
Beyond the three corvettes, Russia will also deploy a refueling vessel, the Alatau rescue tugboat, and a KA-27 helicopter to enhance operational capabilities.
Tolchenov mentioned that this will not be the only Russian naval presence in November; additional ships are anticipated to join later in the month, although specific details about those vessels remain undisclosed.
Describing this naval exercise as a crucial milestone in bilateral military collaboration, Tolchenov reassured that it operates within a bilateral framework to enhance mutual defense capabilities and explore collaborative opportunities.
When questioned if this exercise was intended as a provocation toward Australia, he made it clear that the drills were not meant to challenge or display force against any nation, particularly in the context of Australia’s alliance with the United States, which has been critical of Russia’s actions in Ukraine.
“This is not like cooperation against anyone,” he emphasized, seeking to dispel any notions of hostility surrounding the upcoming joint exercises.
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