Indonesia achieved a new milestone in its defense strategy with the official entry into force of the final tranche of 18 Rafale fighter jets.
The contract, signed in Jakarta in February 2022 in the presence of defense ministers Florence Parly and Prabowo Subianto, alongside representatives from Dassault Aviation and the Indonesian Air Force, concluded Indonesia’s extensive search for a capable successor. The financial details of the contract remain undisclosed.
This recent achievement underscores the significance of the final tranche of 18 Rafale for Indonesia, officially coming into force. Following the entry into force in September 2022 and August 2023 of the first and second tranches of 6 and 18 Rafale, respectively, the completion fulfills the number of aircraft specified in the contract signed in February 2022, totaling 42 Rafale for Indonesia.
At the time, beyond the Rafale acquisition, the contract signing revealed Indonesia’s broader strategic interests. The French defense minister disclosed Indonesia’s consideration of purchasing two French Scorpene submarines, augmenting its existing naval capabilities. Notably, Indonesia already has three Nagapasa-class submarines on order from South Korea, with potential plans for three more units.
“In choosing the Rafale, Indonesia has opted for a unique tool for sovereignty and operational independence that will help consolidate its role as a major regional power. This choice also consolidates ambitious industrial and academic cooperations. We are fully committed to making this partnership a success, with a resolutely long-term vision,” said Eric Trappier, Chairman and CEO of Dassault Aviation.
