Babcock International Group has formally launched the Maritime Partnership Programme (MPP) in Jakarta, marking a significant step in strengthening cooperation between the UK and Indonesia across maritime defence, industrial capability and skills development.
The programme, unveiled in collaboration with the British Embassy in Jakarta and the British Chamber of Commerce Indonesia, brings together government, industry and academic partners to support Indonesia’s long-term maritime ambitions.
The launch event was attended by senior representatives from both nations, including Indonesian Minister of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries Sakti Wahyu Trenggono and UK Minister for Aviation, Maritime and Decarbonisation Keir Mather, alongside Babcock Chief Executive David Lockwood OBE and British Ambassador to Indonesia Dominic Jermey.
As part of the programme, Babcock signed four Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) spanning education, workforce development and industrial collaboration. These include a commitment to fund 30 Chevening Scholarships for Indonesian students over three years, aimed at developing future maritime and industrial leaders.
A university consortium has also been established to strengthen education and research links, bringing together institutions including Newcastle University, University of Strathclyde, University of Edinburgh, University of Glasgow, Universitas Indonesia and Institut Teknologi Sepuluh Nopember.
On the industrial side, Babcock will collaborate with PT Len Industri on naval and maritime technology development, while a separate agreement with PT Citra Shipyard will explore opportunities in shipbuilding, skills transfer and supply chain development.
The agreements build on a £4bn UK–Indonesia maritime deal signed in November 2025 and support the wider UK–Indonesia Strategic Partnership launched by President Prabowo Subianto and Prime Minister Keir Starmer in January 2026.
David Lockwood OBE said the programme reflects Babcock’s long-term commitment to Indonesia’s development as a maritime nation.
“Indonesia is a key strategic partner for Babcock, and these milestone agreements underscore the depth of our global experience and world-class capabilities. We’re here for the long haul – investing in Indonesian people, Indonesian industry and Indonesia’s future as a leading maritime nation.”
– David Lockwood OBE, Chief Executive, Babcock.
Dominic Jermey added that the initiative demonstrates how the bilateral partnership is delivering tangible economic and strategic benefits.
“The Maritime Partnership Programme is the Strategic Partnership in action, an example of how our strong international relationships are delivering real benefit for people at home in jobs, opportunity and growth.
“Together we are strengthening maritime resilience, supporting industry, and expanding opportunities for the next generation of Indonesian leaders.”
– Dominic Jermey, British Ambassador to Indonesia.
Ian Betts, chair of the British Chamber of Commerce in Indonesia, said the programme highlights the strength of UK maritime expertise and its relevance to Indonesia’s ambitions, including through Babcock’s involvement in advancing frigate capability via the Arrowhead 140 programme.
“This partnership goes beyond defence, supporting local industry development, skill transfer, and broader maritime ecosystem growth across Indonesia.”
– Ian Betts, chair of the British Chamber of Commerce in Indonesia.
The Maritime Partnership Programme is expected to play a central role in enhancing maritime resilience, industrial collaboration and workforce capability, while reinforcing the UK and Indonesia’s shared commitment to stability and economic growth in the Indo-Pacific region.
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