Indonesia Denies Final J-10 Jet Deal

Defense Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin described the process as “window shopping,” stressing that Indonesia is surveying multiple aircraft options.

The clarification follows media claims of a $9 billion agreement for 42 Chengdu J-10C fighters announced in mid-October 2025.

Jakarta’s Clarification and Ongoing Review

Minister Sjafrie said the procurement “is not finished,” emphasizing efficient and cost-effective selection without fixed specifications.

His earlier remark that J-10s “will be flying in Jakarta shortly” was later downplayed, confirming no firm commitment.

Brigadier General Frega Wenas Inkiriwang, the defense ministry spokesman, added that the plan remains “under analysis and review” as part of Indonesia’s sovereignty-protection priorities.

Presidential Oversight and Chinese Response

The final authority lies with President Prabowo Subianto, who serves as commander-in-chief.

China’s Defense Ministry spokesperson, Senior Colonel Zhang Xiaogang, said Beijing adopts a “cautious and responsible” stance on arms exports and is willing to cooperate with “peace-loving countries,” but stopped short of confirming any sale.

Earlier Reports of a $9 Billion Proposal

Media outlets had cited a $9 billion framework for 42 J-10C multi-role fighters—a 4.5-generation aircraft featuring an 11-ton thrust engine, 1,100 km combat radius, and Mach 2.2 top speed.

The jets were described as a lower-cost alternative to U.S. F-16 Vipers or France’s Rafale, marking what would have been Indonesia’s first large-scale defense deal with China.

Balancing “Free and Active” Foreign Policy

Jakarta’s “free and active” doctrine allows it to diversify arms sources while avoiding dependence on any single supplier.

Current inventories include 33 U.S. F-16s, 16 Russian Su-27/30s, and 20 South Korean T-50 trainers. Officials continue evaluating interoperability, maintenance costs, and political risk before committing to a new platform.

Other Fighter Options Under Review

Jakarta has examined potential acquisitions including Russia’s Su-35, France’s Rafale, and Türkiye’s KAAN fifth-generation fighter.

The defense modernization plan envisions incremental fleet renewal through 2035 to maintain air-defense parity in Southeast Asia.