Kuala Lampur, Oct. 12 -- Recent announcement by Indonesia on the purchase of the Giuseppe Garibaldi, a light aircraft carrier from Italy, marks a significant development in Southeast Asia's naval landscape.

With this acquisition, Indonesia becomes the second country in Aseanto operate an aircraft, after Thailand.

Senior Indonesian officials have made it clear that the role of the vessel will be dedicated drone and helicopter operation warship, but it will be used primarily for humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR), as well as maritime disaster response. It reflects both unique geographic vulnerabilities of Indonesia and its aspiration to become the regional leader in non-traditional security roles.

The Giuseppe Garibaldi w...