ASIATODAY.ID, PARIS – Defense ties between Indonesia and France have grown significantly stronger.
On Monday, July 14, 2025, Indonesian Defense Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin held a bilateral meeting in Paris with his French counterpart, H.E. Mr. Sebastien Lecornu, following the Bastille Day military parade on the Champs-Élysées.
The meeting served as a clear symbol of the deepening Indonesia-France defense cooperation, reaffirming both countries’ commitment to maintaining peace and stability across the Indo-Pacific region.
Minister Sjafrie expressed his appreciation for the opportunity to engage in high-level defense dialogue and extended his gratitude to the French government for allowing Indonesian troops to participate in the prestigious Bastille Day parade — a powerful gesture of mutual trust and strategic partnership.
Indonesia to Acquire 24 More Rafale Fighter Jets, Strengthens Air Force Fleet
In a major development, Indonesia confirmed its plan to purchase an additional 24 Rafale fighter jets from France. First reported by French outlet La Tribune, this procurement adds to the earlier deal signed in May 2025 for 12 units.
With this expansion, Indonesia’s total Rafale acquisition will reach 66 aircraft, making it one of the largest Rafale operators outside Europe. The jets being acquired are the latest F4 variant, equipped with advanced radar, cutting-edge electronic warfare systems, and modern combat network capabilities.
This move is part of a long-term defense procurement plan initiated in February 2022, when Indonesia signed a multi-phase deal for 42 Rafale jets. The addition signals Indonesia’s strong commitment to bolstering its air defense capabilities amid growing geopolitical tensions in the region.
Emphasis on Technology Transfer and Defense Industry Growth
Beyond fighter jets, Indonesia has also expressed strong interest in acquiring Scorpène-class submarines and CAESAR 155mm self-propelled artillery systems from France. These deals include comprehensive technology transfer agreements and local industrial participation, aligning with Indonesia’s broader vision to enhance defense self-reliance.
The integration of these advanced French systems will also streamline Indonesia’s currently diverse fleet — which includes Western and Russian aircraft like the F-16 and Su-27/30 — and improve overall maintenance efficiency and interoperability within the Indonesian Air Force.
President Prabowo’s Presence at Bastille Day: A Strategic Indo-Pacific Signal
President Prabowo Subianto’s attendance at the Bastille Day military parade underscored Indonesia’s growing stature as a key strategic partner for France in the Indo-Pacific. France views Indonesia as a pivotal player in regional security, while Indonesia regards France as a reliable source of advanced military technology and a long-term defense ally.
The deepening Indonesia-France defense partnership is not just a diplomatic achievement but a strategic step toward regional resilience and national security enhancement. As this collaboration evolves, Indonesia is poised to face future geopolitical challenges with greater confidence and military readiness. (AT Network)
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