Indonesian Navy Investigates Underwater Object Found in Gili Trawangan

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - The discovery of a suspicious underwater object in the seas off North Lombok has prompted a military investigation. The Indonesian Navy has confirmed that a comprehensive inspection of the device is underway.

Head of the Indonesian Navy Information Service (Kadispenal), Adm. Tunggul, said the investigation was launched after fishermen found a device suspected to be an unmanned submarine in the North Strait of Gili Trawangan, North Lombok Regency, West Nusa Tenggara, on Monday, April 6, 2026.

The discovery was immediately reported to nearby Navy personnel before being secured for further examination.

“The Indonesian Navy, through a team of relevant experts, will promptly conduct a technical identification of the device to determine its origin, function, and the data contained within it,” Tunggul said in Jakarta on Tuesday, April 7, as quoted by Antara.

The underwater device was evacuated to the Gili Air Naval Station before being handed over to the Mataram Naval Base. Military Police at the base are also investigating to ensure the process follows proper procedure. “Police lines have been set up around the object to ensure the investigation proceeds in accordance with standards,” Tunggul added.

Reports suggest the device may be an underwater surveillance drone belonging to a private Chinese company. However, the Navy has stated that it cannot confirm the technical details or ownership until the inspection is complete.

“The Indonesian Navy remains fully committed to safeguarding Indonesia’s maritime sovereignty and territorial security against all unauthorized activities, including the use of underwater devices or equipment by unauthorized parties within Indonesia’s maritime territory,” Tunggul said. ***