Indonesia is set to purchase Chinese-made J-10 fighter jets, potentially becoming the second foreign operator of the aircraft after Pakistan. The deal would mark the first acquisition of Chinese fighter jets by Indonesia as part of its ongoing military modernisation efforts.
Defence Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin confirmed the purchase, stating the jets “will be flying over Jakarta soon,” though he did not provide specific details on the delivery timeline. Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa said the ministry has approved nearly US$9 billion for the purchase but noted the delivery dates still need to be confirmed. Jakarta plans to acquire at least 42 J-10 jets.
The acquisition follows earlier statements by Indonesian defence officials expressing the desire to secure advanced military aircraft. The Indonesian Air Force is currently reviewing the jets to ensure they will strengthen the country’s air defence capabilities.
The J-10, developed by Chengdu Aircraft Corporation, is China’s third-generation fighter jet and has recently been upgraded to the 4.5-generation J-10C variant. The J-10C features advanced engines, AESA radars, and long-range PL-15 air-to-air missiles. Pakistan currently operates J-10C fighters, and the aircraft reportedly scored its first known air-to-air kill during the Kashmir conflict.
With the deal, Indonesia would become the third confirmed international operator of the J-10C. The country is also modernising its air force with purchases of 42 French Rafale jets, Turkish fifth-generation KAAN jets, and co-development of South Korea’s KF-21 fighters, while continuing to operate aging F-16s and Su-30s.
This move underscores Jakarta’s push to upgrade its military capabilities through a mix of foreign acquisitions and joint development programs.
