Indonesia receives first batch of US amphibious combat vehicles

The Indonesian Navy Marine Corps has received its first batch of 12 Assault Amphibious Vehicles (AAV) M-35, marking Indonesia’s first significant Foreign Military Sale (FMS) deal with the United States. The delivery included 11 AAVP7 personnel carrier variants and one AAVC7 command variant.

This initial delivery is part of a $23 million procurement of 35 units. An additional 23 vehicles are expected to arrive by the end of November. Indonesia intends to eventually acquire a total of 105 units through subsequent batches planned for 2027 and 2028 to strengthen maritime defense and power projection capabilities across the archipelago.

Admiral Muhammad Ali, Chief of Staff of the Indonesian Navy, noted that the close relationship between the Indonesian and US Marine Corps facilitated a special price for the program. The M-35 vehicles are reported to be more capable than existing South Korean-made amphibious vehicles, with the ability to navigate rough waters up to sea state 5.