Military Sealift Command was formed in Jakarta on 1 July 1961 under the name of the Naval Transport Department (Djawatan Angkutan Laut Militer / Dalmil) using for heavy amphibious transport purposes the Navy's newly acquired Teluk Langsa-class LSTs from the US and one Polnocny-class LST, manufactured in Poland for the service.

[1][2] Dalmil was renamed into the Naval Transport Command (Komando Angkutan Laut Militer / Koalmil) while it served its first combat duty: Operation Trikora in April 1962.

[1][2] Starting 23 July 1971, the name of the Military Sealift Command used and confirmed as the official title based on the resolution of the office of the Minister of Defense and Security/Commander of the Armed Forces, concerning Organizational Principles and the needs of the ALRI.

In accordance with the functions and duties of carrying out a shift in military strength, both troops and logistics by sea in all Indonesian waters.

[2] In the field of development, Military Sealift Command is tasked with compiling and planning programs for the development of elemental strength, terminals and supporting facilities and infrastructure within the ranks of the command through maintenance, delivery, tactical development and procedures for Military Sea Transportation in accordance with the level and environment of its authority[2] In the operational field, Military Sealift Command coordinates and prepares plans and programs for sea transportation for all ranks of the National Armed Forces and National Police.