France and Indonesia are preparing for a new milestone in their growing defense cooperation, with the possible signing of a contract for an additional 24 Rafale fighter jets for the Indonesian Air Force, manufactured by Dassault Aviation. The deal could be finalized during the official visit of Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto to Paris on July 14, when he will be the guest of honor at the traditional military parade for France’s National Day.
Sources close to the negotiation indicated that Jakarta is no longer seeking just 12, but 24 Rafales in this new phase of acquisition, which would be added to the previously agreed orders. The signing of the contract would mark a decisive step in the modernization of the Indonesian Air Force (TNI-AU), while also strengthening France’s role as a strategic partner and key defense supplier in the Asia-Pacific region.
The Indonesian leader, known for his affinity toward French culture and politics, will be accompanied by 450 military personnel who will participate in the parade along the Champs-Élysées, thus consolidating a symbolic sign of the deepening bilateral relationship. The visit comes just two months after President Emmanuel Macron’s tour of Southeast Asia, during which both governments signed a Letter of Intent on defense, which already foresaw new acquisitions of Rafales, Scorpène submarines, and light frigates.
In addition to the possible Rafale contract, July 14 could also bring the signing of other strategic agreements, such as for two Scorpène submarines from Naval Group and a new order of up to 36 CAESAR self-propelled howitzers from KNDS France. However, as of today, none of these contracts have been officially confirmed, although expectations are rising as the date approaches.
The strengthening of defense ties is not limited to equipment purchases. France and Indonesia are moving toward a broader industrial partnership that includes technology transfer, local assembly, and the creation of logistical capabilities on Indonesian soil. In that regard, KNDS has already announced that part of the maintenance for the CAESAR systems will be carried out in local workshops, consolidating Indonesia as the main Asian operator of this artillery system and the third largest worldwide.
This rapprochement between Paris and Jakarta reinforces France’s presence in the Asia-Pacific at a time of growing competition for regional influence, and positions Indonesia as a key player in the Indo-Pacific military strategy, while expanding its operational autonomy with cutting-edge equipment.
Images for illustrative purposes only.
You may also like: The navies of the United Kingdom, France, and Italy are planning a coordinated deployment of their aircraft carriers to the Indo-Pacific
