Indonesia has confirmed plans to purchase Chinese Chengdu J-10C fighters, broadening its fast-growing mix of combat aircraft.
Defense Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin said the aircraft “will be flying over Jakarta soon,” without specifying delivery dates or quantities. Previous reports suggested Jakarta could acquire up to 42 J-10CEs.
The single-engine J-10C features an AESA radar, modern avionics, and compatibility with China’s long-range PL-15 missile. The deal marks Indonesia’s first major purchase of a Chinese combat aircraft and comes amid growing efforts to diversify defense suppliers.
A crowded procurement landscape
Indonesia signed a contract in 2022 for 42 Dassault Rafale F4 fighters, with deliveries to begin in 2026. Earlier this year, Jakarta finalized a deal with Turkey for 48 KAAN fifth-generation aircraft under a 10-year program that involves technology transfer and partial local assembly.
Indonesia is still participating, albeit in a reduced form, in the KF-21 Boramae program with South Korea. In June 2025, Seoul and Jakarta signed a revised joint development agreement that trims Indonesia’s financial contributions while preserving its industrial role.
With these four overlapping programs, Indonesia is pursuing one of the most diverse fighter fleets in Asia. Officials say this approach aims to balance costs, strengthen industrial partnerships, and maintain strategic autonomy.
Balancing opportunity and risk
Analysts warn that operating aircraft from France, Turkey, South Korea, and China will create significant interoperability and sustainment challenges. Maintenance, pilot training, and data-sharing networks will require complex adaptation across multiple standards.
Jakarta’s decision also carries geopolitical weight. The inclusion of Chinese fighters could complicate defense relations with Western suppliers, though it aligns with Indonesia’s long-standing “free and active” policy of avoiding alignment with any major bloc.
If fully carried out, Indonesia’s four-track fighter acquisition could provide its air force with unmatched flexibility or an equally significant logistical challenge.
