Indonesia receives first batch of 12 amphibious assault vehicles

The vehicle delivered to the Indonesian Marine Corps is assessed by Janes to be an AAV-7A1. (Italian Navy)

The Indonesian Marine Corps received the first batch of 12 amphibious assault vehicles (AAVs) on 22 September, the service announced on its official social media channel.

According to the Indonesian Marine Corps, the vehicles, which the service referred to as AAV M-35s, arrived at Tanjung Priok Port in North Jakarta and were subsequently transported to Hartono Marine Barracks in Cilandak, South Jakarta. However, the service did not disclose the vehicle variant or the name of the manufacturer.

The service said the arrival marked an important milestone for the marine corps, which previously received 10 Landing Vehicle, Tracked-7A1 (LVT-7A1) amphibious vehicles from South Korea in December 2009.

“As amphibious landing vehicles, the AAVs will strengthen the marines' ability to conduct operations from sea to shore and continue inland toward their objectives,” the service added.

The delivery forms part of a wider 35-vehicle procurement programme. However, the service did not provide a schedule for the remaining 23 vehicles.

According to specifications published by the Indonesian Marine Corps, the AAV is powered by a 525 hp Cummins V903 diesel engine and has a combat weight of approximately 23 tonnes. The vehicle measures 7.94 m in length, 3.27 m in width, and 3.26 m in height.

The platform is reported to be capable of operating in conditions up to Sea State 5, with a maximum speed of 15 km/h in the water and 75 km/h on land. Each vehicle is operated by a crew of three and can transport up to 21 dismounted troops.

Janes