Indonesia is now planning to buy 24 Rafale fighter jets from France’s Dassault Aviation—twice the number previously expected.
Indonesia Plans to Double Its Rafale Jet Order During Paris Visit
This major defense move could be finalized during Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto’s upcoming visit to Paris. The president has been invited as France’s special guest to attend the Bastille Day festivities on July 14.
Around 450 Indonesian soldiers are also expected to take part in the ceremonial parade on the Champs-Élysées. This visit is not only symbolic but also a strong display of growing ties between Jakarta and Paris. The two countries have already formed a close relationship, especially in the field of defense cooperation.
Indonesia has previously expressed interest in the Rafale. Indonesia inked a contract for 42 of these cutting-edge aircraft back in February 2022. Three phases made up the agreement: six jets at first, then two additional batches of eighteen each. These groups’ contracts went into effect in January 2024, August 2023, and February 2022. It is anticipated that the first aircraft would be delivered in early 2026.
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President Subianto’s trip to France follows President Emmanuel Macron’s trip to Jakarta in May. These visits underline the commitment both countries are showing toward deeper military and industrial cooperation.
Possible Arms Contracts Beyond the Rafale Deal
Alongside the potential Rafale jet deal, more defense contracts may be signed during the Bastille Day celebrations. One of the major deals on the table is for two Scorpène submarines. These submarines are being developed by the French defense company Naval Group. While the final paperwork is not yet confirmed, sources suggest that these deals are moving forward rapidly.
In addition, France’s KNDS company might seal another contract to deliver up to 36 Caesar self-propelled artillery systems. These mobile cannons are already in use by several countries and are valued for their speed and accuracy. Additionally, Naval Group might reach an agreement to provide the Indonesian navy with new frigates.
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Though no agreements have been officially signed at this point, final decisions could be made in the days leading up to the president’s arrival in Paris. Multiple sources confirm that discussions are active, but final signatures are often subject to last-minute negotiations.
During President Macron’s recent trip to Jakarta in May, several defense interests were discussed. Indonesia expressed a strong interest in acquiring more French-made military systems, including light frigates, submarines, and Caesar artillery.
A Letter of Intent Marks Growing Military Ties
During Macron’s visit in May, Indonesia and France took a big step forward in their defense partnership. The two nations signed a letter of intent to show mutual interest in the continued purchase and delivery of French defense equipment. This letter, signed by French Defense Minister Sébastien Lecornu and his Indonesian counterpart Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin, covered Rafale jets, Scorpène submarines, Caesar artillery systems, and light frigates.
While the letter did not include any confirmed numbers or delivery dates, it was seen as a clear sign of growing trust and cooperation between the two nations. Lecornu said that the deal reflected both the high quality of French military technology and the shared goal of forming long-term defense partnerships that also support local industries in Indonesia.
In April 2024, Indonesia declared that it would buy two Scorpène submarines from Naval Group. The country also ordered long-range GM400 military radars from French defense company Thales in 2023. These moves show Indonesia’s ongoing effort to strengthen its national defense using modern systems.
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Pierre Eric Pommellet, CEO of Naval Group, commended the letter of intent. He said it highlighted the deep trust between France’s Naval Group, Indonesia’s PT PAL (a local shipbuilding company), and the Indonesian Navy. In addition to the submarines, talks are also ongoing for Indonesia to buy FDI-type frigates or Gowind Plus corvettes, adding more strength to its naval forces.
Indonesia’s increasing investment in French defense technology underlines its commitment to improving its military capabilities and building long-term international defense relationships.