Indonesia is set to finalize a major defense contract with France for the acquisition of 24 additional Rafale multirole fighter jets during President Prabowo Subianto's state visit to Paris for the Bastille Day celebrations on July 14.
This expanded agreement builds upon Indonesia's foundational 2022 contract with Dassault Aviation for 42 Rafale aircraft, which was structured into three acquisition tranches and will bring the total fleet to 66 aircraft.
Indonesia is acquiring the advanced Rafale F4 variant, featuring enhanced radar and electronic warfare systems, improved sensor fusion, network-centric capabilities, and compatibility with next-generation guided weapons.
The deal will make Indonesia one of the largest non-European operators of the French fighter and a top client for Dassault in Southeast Asia, with deliveries of the first aircraft scheduled to begin in early 2026.
This strategic acquisition reflects Indonesia's urgency to strengthen its air force amid rising regional tensions and demonstrates the deepening defense cooperation between France and Indonesia in the Indo–Pacific region.
