RRI.CO.ID, Bremen – Indonesia has officially enhanced its maritime fleet with the launch and handover of the Hydro-Oceanographic Auxiliary Vessel (BHO) KRI Canopus-936 at the Abeking & Rasmussen shipyard in Bremen, Germany, on Thursday 12 February 2026.

Indonesian Ambassador to Germany, Abdul Kadir Jailani, stated that KRI Canopus-936 is not merely a research vessel, but a national marine data integration center.

“KRI Canopus-936 is a major leap forward for Indonesia. This vessel not only strengthens the capacity of the Indonesian Navy, but also opens a new era of independence in Indonesia’s marine data. The Indonesia–Germany collaboration in this project demonstrates that strategic partnerships can deliver tangible innovation for national security and the nation’s future,” Abdul Kadir Jailani said.

The high-tech research vessel forms part of the modernization of the Indonesian Navy’s primary defense equipment system, while also reflecting strengthened Indonesia–Germany strategic cooperation in maritime and technological sectors.

KRI Canopus-936 is equipped with advanced underwater sensor technology capable of mapping the seabed to depths of up to 11,000 meters. The 105-meter-long vessel is also fitted with an Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (AUV) and a Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) to support data collection missions in deep-sea and extreme environments.

Beyond its research function, the vessel is designed for long-range operations of up to 60 consecutive days, enabling it to support navigational security, marine environmental protection, and the reinforcement of defense strategies within Indonesia’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).

The ship was built over 36 months through cooperation between PT Palindo Marine and Abeking & Rasmussen. The project also included technology transfer to strengthen the capacity of Indonesia’s national shipbuilding industry and human resources.

The addition of KRI Canopus-936 is expected to further enhance Indonesia's ability to understand, safeguard, and independently manage its maritime domain as a maritime nation.