Clurit-class

Summary

Description

The Clurit class constitutes a series of fast attack craft developed and constructed in Indonesia, specifically for the Indonesian Navy. These craft are named after traditional Indonesian weapons and swords, with the class itself being named after the Clurit, a curved blade weapon from East Java traditionally wielded by the Madurese people.

The origins of the Clurit class trace back to the production efforts at PT Palindo Marine Shipyard in Tanjunguncang, Batam. The class was initiated to bolster the Indonesian Navy's capabilities, with the first of the ships being commissioned in February 2012. The KRI Kujang 642, another ship bearing the same specifications, joined the fleet soon after. By the end of 2013, two additional ships had entered service, with the ambition of expanding the class to nine vessels by the end of 2014. This initiative was managed between PT Palindo Marine Shipyard and PT Citra Shipyard, emphasizing Indonesia's self-reliance in naval manufacturing.

Designed for surprise, fast strikes, multi-target engagements, and evasion, the Clurit class is modestly crewed, requiring just 35 individuals per vessel. The design of the craft considers both operational agility and firepower. Initially, the vessels in this class were equipped with a Denel (Vektor) 20mm cannon and dual 12.7 mm machine guns. However, in May 2014, the Clurit and the Kujang received upgrades: a Chinese-made NG-18 30mm Close-In Weapon System (CIWS), and two new C-705 Surface-to-Surface Missiles (SSMs) were installed. Although publications such as Jane's indicated the ships could carry four C-705 missiles, it was not immediately clear when these missiles would be operational. The C-705 represents an evolution of the Chinese C-704, featuring a turbojet for increased range, extending to 120 kilometers. Indonesia has expressed interest in localizing the production of these missiles through licensing agreements.

The operational history of the Clurit class encapsulates Indonesia's modern naval strategy, pursuing self-sufficiency in its defense sector, and augmenting the navy's prowess in littoral combat scenarios. It also illustrates the continuous development in terms of armaments, reflective of Indonesia’s commitment to keeping pace with evolving maritime security demands.

As for operating countries, it is implied that Indonesia is the sole operator of the Clurit class fast attack craft. The Indonesian Navy's acquisition and commissioning of these locally-built vessels affirm Indonesia's goal to not only reduce reliance on foreign technology but also to possibly become an exporter of military ships, as indicated by reports suggesting future plans for warship exports.

Technical specifications