Indonesia has decided to purchase 42 J-10C fighter jets from China instead of the French Rafale. This $9 billion deal is a major victory for China's defense industry, while dealing a blow to the Rafale market.

Indonesia has decided to purchase 42 Chinese J-10C multirole fighter jets as part of its military modernization drive, replacing the French Rafale. Defense Minister Sjafri Sjamsodin stated that the Finance Ministry has approved the deal, estimated to cost $9 billion. He said the deal is a historic step toward strengthening Indonesia's air power.

Both the Rafale and J-10C are 4.5-generation fighter jets, but there are significant differences in their capabilities and cost. The Rafale is France's state-of-the-art twin-engine fighter jet, equipped with a Thales AESA radar and Meteor missiles. The J-10C is China's lightweight, agile, and cost-effective fighter jet, equipped with a KLJ-7A AESA radar and PL-15 missiles. According to experts, the Rafale is technologically superior, but the J-10C's lower cost and easier maintenance attracted Indonesia to it.

Highlights of the Indonesia deal

Indonesia pursued a policy of greater capability at a lower cost when negotiating this deal. The French Rafale costs approximately $120 million per jet, while the Chinese J-10C is available for just $55–60 million. Defense experts say Indonesia acquired twice as many Rafales at half the price. Several reports also claim that China waged an anti-French campaign through diplomatic channels to push through the deal.

A major victory for China – the J-10C has found a new customer.

Indonesia's decision is being considered a major success for China's defense industry. This is China's second export deal for the J-10C fighter jet, the first being with Pakistan. This move not only increases China's strategic presence in Southeast Asia but also challenges the military markets of countries like France and the United States. According to analyst Babak Tagwai, Indonesia does not want to join any single bloc. It has maintained its independence through diverse partnerships.

Indonesia's defense cooperation with every country

Indonesia's foreign policy has long been non-aligned. It maintains military relations with the United States, Russia, France, and China. Currently, the Indonesian Air Force has Russian Su-27s and Su-30s, American F-16s, South Korean T-50 fighter jets, and French Rafale fighter jets. Following the deal with China, it will also acquire China's J-10C fighter jet. This diversity gives it strength.