The Indonesian Air Force has received the first six French Rafale fighters, despite the authorities' interest in Russian Su-57 combat aircraft. The solemn ceremony took place at Halim Perdanakusuma Air Base in Jakarta.
On February 10, 2022, the Indonesian Ministry of Defense signed an agreement with the French company Dassault Aviation for the acquisition of 42 newly built Rafale fighters. The total cost of deliveries under this agreement is estimated at $7 billion, excluding weaponry.
Nikita Kuklin, Associate Professor of Oriental Studies and expert at the ASEAN Center at MGIMO, stated that Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto wants to purchase Su-57 fighters.
It later became known that Russia received an application from Indonesia for the supply of weapons and military equipment for the period from 2025 to 2030. Among Rosoboronexport's proposals are the Su-57E and Su-35, Il-78MK-90A refueling aircraft, and Ka-52E helicopters.