Earlier this week, the Indonesian Air Force confirmed that it officially received its first three new Rafale F4 fighters, which completed a considerably long ferry flight from Dassault’s production facilities in France. In this way, the Southeast Asian country has taken the first step in the induction process of a fleet comprising a total of 42 French-built aircraft (30 single-seaters and 12 two-seaters), which will allow it to strengthen its combat capabilities—currently composed mainly of U.S.-origin F-16 fighters and Russian-designed Su-30s.
The news was confirmed by an Indonesian Ministry of Defence spokesperson, Rico Ricardo Sirait, who, when approached by Reuters, stated: “The aircraft have been delivered and are ready to be used by the Indonesian Air Force.” He added that the aircraft had arrived in the country last Friday and are currently housed at Roesmin Nurjadin Air Base, located on the western island of Sumatra, while also confirming plans to receive a larger number of aircraft over the course of this year.
It is worth recalling that Dassault had already formally handed over these first three fighters on 28 November 2025, following a ceremony held at the company’s facility in Mérignac, Bordeaux. On that occasion, the presence of senior officials was noted, including Air Marshal TNI Ir. Tedi Rizalihadi S., M.M., who highlighted the commitment of Indonesia’s French partners to meet delivery schedules and to provide support for the training of future Indonesian pilots and technicians.
In relation to the latter, it should be noted that during the training period Indonesian personnel received support from the French Air and Space Force, which provided theoretical instruction in classrooms as well as the opportunity to work alongside an already operational Rafale fighter squadron. As we reported in mid-December, the Asian country’s delegation obtained the relevant certifications to operate the platform after months of work at Saint-Dizier Air Base, and they were also cleared to pass on their knowledge to future cohorts once back in Indonesian territory.
Finally, it should be considered that even as Indonesia is only just beginning to receive the first aircraft of its future Rafale F4 fleet, the country is already engaged in negotiations with France for an additional batch of up to 24 aircraft—effectively doubling the number originally floated for this expansion. Broadening the view to other procurement projects linking both nations, it is also worth recalling that Jakarta has placed orders for new submarines and frigates, making it the largest buyer of French weaponry in the region.
Images used for illustrative purposes
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