Islamabad: Indonesia’s Defence Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin has announced that the country will purchase at least 42 Chinese-made Chengdu J-10C fighter jets.
According to Kashmir Media Service, this marks Indonesia’s first major deal for non-Western combat aircraft.
Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa confirmed that over $9 billion has been approved for the acquisition.
Earlier, in January 2024, Indonesia had finalized an order for 42 French Dassault Rafale jets, with the first delivery expected in early 2026.
Observers link Jakarta’s latest move to the impressive performance of the J-10C, which gained international attention after its successful use by the Pakistan Air Force during the 2025 Indo-Pakistan standoff.
The conflict significantly boosted the reputation and market value of Chinese aircraft, while French Rafales, several of which were reportedly destroyed, saw a decline in credibility.
