Indonesia has announced plans to acquire 42 Chinese-made Chengdu J-10C fighter jets in a landmark agreement that marks its first major procurement of combat aircraft from a non-Western country.
Defence Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin told reporters that the move is part of a sweeping modernisation effort for the Indonesian military. “They will be flying over Jakarta soon,” he said, without revealing delivery schedules or technical details.
The Ministry of Finance has approved more than US $9 billion for the purchase, though timing and payment modalities remain under review.
Until now, Indonesia has relied largely on Western, Russian, and European aircraft, including U.S. F-16s, French Rafales, and Russian Sukhois. The decision to buy Chinese jets signals a shift in Indonesia’s defence procurement strategy.
If the sale is finalised, Indonesia would become only the second country outside China to operate the J-10—and likely the first in Southeast Asia—joining Pakistan.
The deal may carry geopolitical ramifications, especially given tensions in the South China Sea and China’s expanding regional influence. Analysts warn the move could alter power balances in the region.
Yet challenges remain. Operating a Chinese platform alongside a diverse mix of Western and Russian aircraft may complicate logistics, training, and maintenance.
Local media reports suggest Indonesia might also procure Chinese naval assets and anti-ship missiles alongside the fighter jets, hinting at a broader arms package.
Unless the deal is publicly confirmed and contracts signed, many details remain speculative. But if realised, the transaction would mark a new chapter in Indonesia’s strategic orientation and defence relationships.
