Indonesia and France Partner on Marine Research Vessel Project

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Indonesia and France have agreed to cooperate on marine research by constructing two modern research vessels. The collaboration involves the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), the French Development Agency (AFD), the European Union, and French shipyard PIRIOU.

The partnership was formalized with the signing of a contract under the National Research Vessel (KRisNa) project. PIRIOU was appointed as the project implementer through an open international tender process that attracted 12 participants.

According to a statement from the French Embassy in Jakarta, the project aims to strengthen Indonesia’s marine research capacity and deepen strategic ties between the two countries.

French Ambassador to Indonesia Fabien Penone described the contract signing as an important milestone in bilateral maritime relations. He noted that France, which has the world’s second-largest ocean territory, brings significant expertise in marine research, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region.

European Union Ambassador Denis Chaibi said Europe’s involvement would help enhance Indonesia’s marine research capabilities by leveraging modern French vessel technology and design.

AFD Country Director Yann Martres emphasized that sustainable ocean management is a key focus of France–Indonesia cooperation. He called the KRisNa project an important step in the partnership between BRIN and AFD, which has been built over several years.

PIRIOU President Vincent Faujour said the company was proud to contribute to Indonesia’s strategic program to strengthen national research capacity and maritime sovereignty.

BRIN Head Arif Satria underscored the importance of international cooperation in advancing marine science and technology. He said Indonesia holds a strategic position as a maritime nation, playing a vital role in biodiversity, global connectivity, marine resources, and climate dynamics.

“The data and information generated by modern research vessels are crucial for supporting maritime policy formulation, natural resource management, environmental protection, and the development of marine technology,” Arif said.

The KRisNa project follows a collaborative commitment between Indonesia and AFD, agreed upon in 2021. It will deliver two vessels: an ocean-going research ship capable of deep-sea exploration, and a coastal vessel designed for research in shallow waters.

The new fleet is expected to serve as strategic infrastructure, boosting Indonesia’s marine research capacity and supporting the sustainable use of marine resources. The project also symbolizes growing cooperation between Indonesia and France in advancing the Indo-Pacific marine agenda. ***