UK and Indonesia Forge £4 Billion Maritime Defence Partnership, Boosting Jobs and Security

Historic Maritime Partnership Announced

The United Kingdom and Indonesia have solidified a significant new £4 billion Maritime Partnership Programme (MPP), aimed at bolstering Indonesia's naval capabilities and expanding its fishing fleets. The landmark agreement was celebrated during a call between UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto on November 22, 2025, held from the G20 Summit.

This partnership is set to create approximately 1,000 jobs in the UK, primarily at British defence firm Babcock's Rosyth shipyard, with additional roles in Bristol and Devonport. The initiative builds upon a broader strategic partnership established between the two nations in November 2024.

Dual Focus: Defence and Food Security

Under the terms of the MPP, Babcock will lead the joint development of Indonesia's naval capacity and oversee the construction of more than 1,000 vessels for its fishing fleets. These vessels will be built in Indonesia, leveraging British shipbuilding expertise and technology transfer. The programme is designed to deliver substantial investment in local Indonesian shipbuilding, revitalize coastal communities, and enhance the nation's maritime security.

President Prabowo Subianto highlighted the dual benefits, stating, 'Through our historic partnership, we will develop and build our vessels domestically, supported by the expertise, experience and technology from the United Kingdom.' He added that the collaboration 'will mutually drive our economies, create high quality jobs, and more importantly, advance Indonesia's shipbuilding and defence capabilities. Crucially, it will also empower our local fishermen and coastal communities by presenting significant new economic opportunities.'

Strategic Implications and Sustainable Development

Prime Minister Starmer emphasized the strategic importance of the deal, noting, 'This deal with Indonesia is the latest example of how our strong international partnerships are delivering real benefit for people at home in jobs, opportunity and growth. And as one of our closest G20 partners, it reinforces our joint commitment to global stability and bolsters our shared national security.'

The partnership extends beyond shipbuilding to include commitments to technology transfer, joint research, automation, and Artificial Intelligence in future shipbuilding. Furthermore, the programme is supported by the UK's Blue Planet Fund, ensuring that future vessels are deployed with environmental, economic, and social sustainability in mind. This includes projects focused on dynamic fish-stock assessment, fisheries management, marine conservation, and community-led coastal resilience initiatives.

The agreement underscores both countries' shared commitment to stability and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region, upholding freedom of navigation and supporting a rules-based international order.