Customer story: The Indonesian Navy

Imagine being entrusted with a mission to bolster the defense capabilities of a nation spread across more than 17,000 Islands. This was the challenge faced by Terma and PT PAL, Indonesian state-owned ship manufacturer. Together, the two companies embarked on an ambitious project: to deliver four state of-the-art KCR-60 fast attack crafts to the Indonesian Navy - all with Terma’s Scanter 4603 radars, C-flex C2 system, C-guard decoy launching system as well as Terma’s fire control system C-fire.

The fast attack crafts weren’t just additions to the Indonesian fleet; they were integral to ensuring the security of the vast maritime boundaries of Indonesia. But as Terma and PT PAL commenced this endeavor, an unforeseen storm loomed – the COVID-19 pandemic.

For many, the pandemic was a disruptor, but for Terma and PT PAL, it presented an obstacle of enormous proportions.

Face-to-face collaborations, which are crucial for aligning specifications and expectations in such comprehensive projects, were abruptly halted. Yet, the need for these vessels didn’t diminish. On the contrary, ensuring the maritime sovereignty of Indonesia became more critical than ever. How do you ensure that such an essential project stays on track in the face of global disruptions?

Well, you innovate, adapt, and rise to the occasion. As you’ll discover in the sections ahead, Terma and PT PAL did just that, weaving a story of resilience, innovation, and unwavering commitment to their mission.

Overcoming COVID-Challenges

Imagine initiating a complex naval project, only to have the world plunged into an unprecedented pandemic.

Suddenly, the very foundation of how businesses operate and collaborate is shaken. This is precisely the scenario Terma and PT PAL faced. The usual playbook? It had to be rewritten.

Navigating through these rough seas, Terma and PT PAL showcased a masterclass in adaptability and instead of physical meetings, like most other companies, we moved collaboration online, harnessing digital tools and virtual platforms. However, when working with projects – and vessels – of this magnitude, a Teams-meeting becomes something entirely different than your everyday check-in meeting.

All collaboration and physical demos turned virtual; even the factory acceptance tests (FAT) were online.

In practice, “demo FATs” were implemented, using handheld cameras and online conference meetings to ensure that every specification met the meticulous standards set by both the Indonesian Navy and PT PAL.

Dynamic Alignment - A Tactical Imperative

While handling the COVID-challenge was a significant accomplishment from both parties, looking at the engineering behind the KCR-60’s is another.

One thing PT PAL recalls as a prominent achievement is the vessels’ dynamic alignment, meaning the ability to align sensors, command controls, and weaponry to hit a specific target.

On fast attack crafts, where speed meets precision, ensuring that all equipment can operate in complete synchrony is not just beneficial – it’s imperative. The whole idea of a fast attack craft is to get in and out of a situation quickly, leaving very little time to perform the operation.

With Terma’s advanced integration methodologies, every system aboard the KCR-60 seamlessly collaborates. The true essence of dynamic alignment is manifested when, even at peak velocities, every command translates into an accurate action, be it surveillance detection or a missile launch.

For those in the naval sphere, the criticality of dynamic alignment is a given. Yet, without the proper expertise and experience as a systems integrator, the task may deem impossible.

Result: An Elevated Maritime Stance for the Indonesian Navy

Indonesia, with its sprawling archipelago, demands a formidable naval presence. The addition of the KCR-60 fast attack crafts, equipped with the latest in maritime technology, significantly boosts its maritime defenses.

Through collaboration, adaptability, and technical aptitude, Terma and PT PAL have together ensured that the Indonesian Navy is well prepared to safeguard its territorial waters, reinforcing peace and security in the region.

As these vessels are taken into service, they symbolize not just military capabilities but the triumph of collaborative spirit in the face of a global pandemic.

For nations and organizations looking to enhance their naval capabilities, the Indonesian Navy’s journey offers a roadmap. By leveraging resilience, innovation, and strategic partnerships, any challenge – even a global one – can be overcome.