Government formally hands over newly acquired aircraft to the Indonesian Air Force

Indonesia has formally taken delivery of additional military aircraft, including French-built Rafale fighter jets, as part of the country’s ongoing defence modernisation programme.

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto presided over a handover ceremony at Halim Perdanakusuma Air Force Base in Jakarta on 18 May 2026.

The aircraft delivered to the Indonesian Air Force included six Rafale fighter aircraft, Dassault Falcon 8X aircraft, and Airbus A400M Atlas transport aircraft.

During the ceremony, Prabowo stated that Indonesia would continue strengthening its defence capabilities as part of broader national security objectives.

Major Rafale acquisition programme

Indonesia signed an agreement in 2022 to acquire 42 Dassault Rafale fighter aircraft from French manufacturer Dassault Aviation.

The reported value of the agreement was approximately US$8.1 billion and was concluded while Prabowo was serving as Indonesia’s defence minister.

The Rafale acquisition forms part of Indonesia’s long-term effort to modernise its air combat capability and expand operational readiness across the archipelago.

Additional transport and support aircraft

Alongside the fighter aircraft, Indonesia also received additional transport and support platforms, including the Airbus A400M Atlas.

The A400M provides strategic and tactical airlift capability, supporting military logistics, troop transport, humanitarian operations, and disaster response missions.

Dassault Falcon 8X aircraft included in the delivery are expected to support government and operational transport requirements.

Indonesia has continued expanding defence procurement activity in recent years as regional security dynamics and operational requirements evolve across the Indo-Pacific region.