British Frigate HMS Richmond Visits Jakarta to Strengthen Defence and Cultural Cooperation

Jakarta: United Kingdom Royal Navy ship, HMS Richmond, a type 23-Frigate, visited Jakarta, Indonesia from 25 June to 1 July 2025. The purpose of this visits to engage with the Indonesian Navy on military cooperation as well as to conduct cultural activities with Indonesian partners.

HMS Richmond is on deployment to the Indo-Pacific region escorting the UK aircraft carrier HMS Prince of Wales alongside other Royal Navy and allied ships which make up the UK Carrier Strike Group (CSG), an important component of the UK’s defence and international strategy. CSG is the cornerstone of the UK’s Joint Expeditionary Forces and the principal building block for NATO and Global security alliances.

During her visit to Jakarta, the ship’s company of HMS Richmond took part in cultural exchanges with the Indonesian Navy and hosted an Industry Day for business on board HMS Richmond.

“This visit by HMS Richmond represents the UK’s commitment to building a strong, enduring partnership with Indonesia, deepening diplomatic, economic and security ties both here and with countries elsewhere in the Indo-Pacific region,” said British Ambassador to Indonesia Dominic Jermey, stated from UK Embassy statement, Wednesday, 25 June 2025.

Defence and security are one of the essential elements of the new UK-Indonesia Strategic Partnership as agreed by President Prabowo Subianto and Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer in London last year, and the visit by HSM Richmond is a real demonstration of the UK’s commitment to regional security, support to the UK’s Growth agenda and the new UK-Indonesia Strategic Partnership.

HMS Richmond is part of the UK Carrier Strike Group, a multinational deployment that reinforces the UK’s position as a strong leader on the global stage, engaging with allies and cementing new partnerships, ensuring the UK is secure at home and strong abroad.

Alongside our allies and partners including Indonesia and ASEAN Member States, the UK is committed to supporting and maintaining the international rules-based system, supporting peace and security from the High North to the Indo-Pacific region”.

Commanding Officer of HMS Richmond, Commander Richard Kemp view his visit in Jakarta.

“It’s a great pleasure for us to be in Jakarta, Indonesia – a country that matters greatly to the United Kingdom. This is the ship’s second visit to Indonesia, and we are excited to explore this beautiful country, learning about the culture, the cuisine and visiting the beautiful city of Jakarta,” said Commander Kemp.

Contributing to building a strong and enduring partnership with Indonesia is at the heart of RICHMOND’s mission, and our visit to Jakarta shows the UK’s commitment to deepening diplomatic, economic and security ties with partners in the Indo Pacific region.

“The UK is looking forwards to deepening our defence, security and trade relations with Indonesia as we work together to bring prosperity and economic growth to both of our peoples,” added Commander Kemp.
   
The Port visit by HMS Richmond coincides with the celebration of His Majesty the King’s Birthday Party and the 498th anniversary of the city of Jakarta.