The Indonesian Ministry of Defense has stated that a proposal to acquire an additional 24 Dassault Rafale fighter jets from France remains under consideration and has not yet been finalized as a government decision. The clarification came in response to recent media reports about the potential expansion of the fleet.
Indonesia initially ordered 42 Rafale jets in a landmark deal signed in 2022. The first batch of aircraft began arriving in the country in 2024. The potential follow-on order for 24 more units would significantly bolster the Indonesian Air Force's multirole combat capabilities.
Defense Ministry officials emphasized that any further procurement must align with the nation's long-term strategic defense plan and fiscal capabilities. The evaluation process involves comprehensive reviews of operational requirements, budget allocation, and industrial cooperation offsets.
If approved, this acquisition would deepen the existing defense partnership between Indonesia and France. The final decision is anticipated to be made following thorough inter-ministerial discussions and high-level government approval.
