Indonesia Considers Purchasing Chinese J-10 Fighter Jets for Military Modernisation

Indonesian Ministry of Defence spokesman Brigadier General Frega Wenas Inkiriwang stated, ‘It’s still being analysed and reviewed. At the moment, we are considering all platforms that can fulfil our need to help guard our sovereignty and territorial integrity.’ Reports from October 16 indicated Indonesian Defence Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin mentioning that the J-10 ‘will be flying in Jakarta shortly,’ although no specific details were provided. Subsequently, Sjamsoeddin noted that Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, holding the supreme commander position in the armed forces, would make the final decision regarding the potential purchase of the J-10s. Prabowo has not yet reached a verdict on the matter. Experts speculate that while the J-10s may present a cost-effective option compared to other fighter jets in the market, their integration into the Indonesian Air Force could introduce complexities in military operations both internally and in cooperation with other nations.