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Indonesia Evaluates Chinese J-10 Fighter Jet Offer Amid Military Modernization

China has proposed selling its J-10 multirole fighter jets to Indonesia. The Southeast Asian nation has yet to conduct a technical evaluation or commit to the offer, emphasizing its independent defense procurement policy. Under President Prabowo Subianto, Indonesia is modernizing its armed forces by exploring multiple options, including deals on French Rafale jets and interest in F-15EX fighters, while maintaining diplomatic neutrality. Despite economic ties, Indonesia remains cautious about adopting Chinese high-tech combat aircraft, assessing operational compatibility and effectiveness before proceeding.

Indonesia Evaluates Chinese J-10 Fighter Jet Offer Amid Military Modernization

China Proposes J-10 Fighter Jets to Indonesia

China has offered to sell its premier J-10 multirole fighter jets to Indonesia, reflecting Beijing's interest in expanding defense ties with Southeast Asia’s largest economy. The offer emerged during a recent visit by Indonesian air force officials to China.

Indonesia's Cautious Approach to the Offer

Indonesian Deputy Defence Minister Donny Ermawan Taufanto clarified that, as of now, no technical evaluation team has been dispatched to China to assess the jets. Describing the proposal as "just an offer," he emphasized that Indonesia remains independent in its defense procurement decisions.

He stated, "If we find that the jet performs well, meets our criteria, and comes at a good price, why not? We’re not bound by any alliance, so we can source weapons from any country, including China."

Currently, Indonesia is assessing whether the J-10 fighter jets can be integrated smoothly with its existing military systems and if they fulfill operational requirements.

Modernizing Indonesia's Armed Forces Under President Prabowo Subianto

Indonesia is undertaking a comprehensive modernization program of its armed forces, led by President Prabowo Subianto. The government aims to bolster air and naval capabilities while maintaining a stance of diplomatic neutrality.

Jakarta is actively exploring multiple potential defense partnerships and has already secured deals for French Rafale jets. It is also involved in the development of the KF-21 supersonic fighter program and has shown interest in Turkey’s KAAN fifth-generation fighter jet. Furthermore, reports indicate that Indonesia is considering reviving plans to procure F-15EX fighters from Boeing.

Indonesia's Position on Chinese Defense Technology

While Indonesia maintains strong economic relations with China and has procured munitions and air surveillance systems from Beijing, it is cautious about acquiring high-end combat aircraft from China. Chinese J-10 jets were used by Pakistan during recent border tensions with India, though independent verification of their combat effectiveness remains unavailable.

Indonesia does not currently regard China as a primary defense partner for advanced fighter jets but continues to keep options open as part of its broader military modernization strategy.

Summary

  • China has offered J-10 fighter jets to Indonesia; Indonesia is assessing their suitability.
  • Jakarta has not committed to a technical evaluation yet.
  • Indonesia pursues a balanced, diversified approach to military sourcing, including Rafale and potential F-15EX acquisition.
  • President Subianto emphasizes modernization with diplomatic neutrality.
  • The effectiveness of the Chinese J-10 in recent conflicts remains unverified externally.
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