Indonesia is in advanced negotiations to acquire a new batch of French Dassault Rafale fighter jets, expanding its already significant previous order.
According to respected French journalist Michel Cabirol, the Southeast Asian country may request 12 more Rafales, although other sources suggest the number being negotiated could range between 8 and 16 additional units. This acquisition would be in addition to the 42 Rafales already contracted, making Indonesia one of the largest operators of the aircraft outside of Europe.
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In addition to expanding the fighter fleet, the Indonesian government has also expressed interest in increasing its stock of CAESAR 155 mm/52 self-propelled howitzers, previously acquired, and is evaluating the purchase of French-made light frigates to strengthen its naval capability.
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The agreements were formalized on May 28 during the official visit of French President Emmanuel Macron to Jakarta. The corresponding memorandums of understanding (MoUs) were signed by the defense ministers of both countries, highlighting the intensifying strategic relationship between Indonesia and France in the defense sector.
According to sources, the formal signing of the contracts may take place during the official visit of Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto to France, scheduled for July 14, France’s national holiday (Bastille Day).
With the potential increase, Indonesia’s Rafale fleet would exceed 50 units
The occasion may also mark the official entry into force of the contract signed in March 2024 for the construction of two non-nuclear Scorpène-class submarines for the Indonesian Navy — a joint project with Naval Group, symbolizing Jakarta’s growing trust in the French defense industry.
With the possible expansion to more than 50 Rafale units, along with submarines and additional artillery systems, Indonesia is solidifying a large-scale defense cooperation with France, with significant implications for Indo-Pacific security and the European defense industry.
The move also strengthens the international profile of President Prabowo, who is seeking to project Indonesia as a regional power with strategic autonomy in an increasingly polarized geopolitical landscape.
Source: latribune. Photos: Wikimedia. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
