Indonesia has confirmed plans to purchase China’s J-10 fighter jets in a deal worth nearly US$9 billion, becoming the second nation after Pakistan to operate the advanced aircraft. The agreement marks Indonesia’s first-ever acquisition of Chinese warplanes as part of its military modernization drive.
Defense Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin announced the decision on Wednesday, saying the J-10s would “soon be flying over Jakarta,” though he did not provide a delivery timeline. Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa added that funding has already been approved, pending final confirmation from Beijing.
According to the Associated Press, Indonesia will acquire at least 42 J-10 fighters to strengthen its air combat and defense capabilities. Pakistan remains the only other foreign user of the J-10C model, having ordered 36 jets in 2020 and deployed about 20 so far.
The J-10C gained international recognition after reports claimed the Pakistan Air Force used it to down several Indian jets, including a French-made Rafale, during a border clash—marking the jet’s first confirmed air-to-air victory.
After Pakistan’s dominance against India over clashes by Air Force, Indonesia Considered China’s J-10 Fighter Jets as Cheaper Alternative to US F-15EX
