Indonesian Military Receives Large Batch of French "Rafale" Fighter Jets and Other Equipment
Xinhua News Agency, Beijing, May 19 - Indonesian President Prabowo on the 18th delivered a large batch of equipment, including French "Rafale" fighter jets, to the Air Force on behalf of the government, emphasizing that Indonesia must continuously enhance its defense capabilities.
On the same day, Prabowo attended the delivery ceremony, representing the government in handing over six "Rafale" fighter jets from Dassault Aviation, four Falcon 8X business jets, one Airbus A400M "Atlas" transport aircraft, a GM403 air defense radar system produced by Thales Group, Meteor air-to-air missiles developed by multiple European countries, and AASM "Hammer" missiles produced by Safran.
He stated that Indonesia must continuously enhance its defense capabilities. The current global geopolitical landscape is filled with uncertainty, and defense capability is "the primary prerequisite for ensuring national stability."
In April of this year, Prabowo met with French President Macron. According to a statement released by the Indonesian government, both sides expressed their intention to deepen cooperation in the defense sector, including the procurement of defense equipment and the development of the defense industry. In 2022, Prabowo, who was then the Indonesian Minister of Defense, signed a contract with the French side for the procurement of 42 "Rafale" fighter jets, with a total order value of $8.1 billion.
Indonesia is a net importer of oil. Recent conflicts in the Middle East have driven up international oil prices, putting pressure on the Indonesian government. However, analysts quoted by AFP said that despite facing budgetary pressures, the Indonesian government is "unlikely" to cancel the fighter jet procurement contract as a result. (Wang Yifan)
Indonesia received 6 Rafale fighter jets and various military equipment from France on May 18, 2023, to bolster its defense capabilities. President Prabowo emphasized the need for Indonesia to enhance its military readiness amid global geopolitical uncertainties. The acquisition includes 4 Falcon 8X jets, an Airbus A400M transport aircraft, and advanced missile systems.
- Indonesia received 6 Rafale fighter jets and other military equipment from France.
- The delivery was part of Indonesia's efforts to enhance its defense capabilities.
- The total contract for 42 Rafale jets amounts to $8.1 billion.
- The Indonesian government is under pressure due to rising oil prices but is unlikely to cancel the aircraft procurement contract.
- The delivery ceremony was attended by President Prabowo.