The number of Dassault Rafale fighters on order for Indonesia has increased to 24 with a second tranche of 18 aircraft coming into force on 10 August 2023, Dassault announced that day.
A USD 8.1 Bn (EUR 7.35 Bn) deal covering the eventual acquisition of 42 Rafales was signed by Indonesia in February 2022. An order for the first tranche of six Rafales came into force in September 2022.
The acquisition of the latest-generation Rafale for the Indonesian National Army Air Force (Tentara Nasional Indonesia Angkatan Udara – TNI-AU) includes a complete ‘turnkey’ solution as well as a substantial industrial return for the Indonesian aeronautical sector, Dassault noted in a pres release. Educational projects will also be launched in Indonesia as part of the transfer of aeronautical know-how.
“This new step consolidates the beginning of a long-term partnership with the Indonesian authorities, whom I would like to thank once again for their confidence,”Eric Trappier, Chairman and CEO of Dassault Aviation, was quoted as saying. “It testifies to the strategic link that unites Indonesia and France, and will be reflected in the growing presence of Dassault Aviation in the country.”
The TNI-AU currently operates a fighter fleet that includes ageing Lockheed Martin F-16s (including A, B, AM, BM, C and D models) and Sukhoi Su-27/30/35s. Although Indonesia has recently recommitted to jointly developing the Korean Aerospace Industries KF-21 Boramae 4.5-generation fighter, Jakarta has sometimes struggled to keep up with the payments for this effort.
Peter Felstead
