Indonesia is reportedly considering a bold move in its military modernization plans: purchasing fighter jets from China and Russia. This shift could signal Jakarta’s growing desire to diversify its defense partnerships and update its aging air fleet more quickly.
According to reports from defense-focused outlets, including aviation news site Alert-5, the Indonesian government is considering acquiring 42 second-hand Chinese J-10 fighter jets. These aircraft would reportedly be upgraded and adjusted to fit Indonesia’s specifications. At the same time, Jakarta is believed to be revisiting a previously frozen deal involving the Russian Su-35—a powerful fourth-generation fighter jet that had once been earmarked to replace some of Indonesia’s older aircraft.
While officials have yet to make a formal announcement, observers expect that more details may be revealed at the upcoming Indo Defence Expo and Forum in Jakarta, set to take place from June 11 to 14. The move would mark a notable departure from Indonesia’s recent tilt toward Western arms manufacturers if confirmed.
Indonesia’s air force currently operates a mixed fleet of aircraft from various sources, including U.S.-made F-16s, Russian Sukhoi Su-27s and Su-30s, and British-made Hawk jets. Many of these platforms are decades old and approaching retirement. The need to replace and modernize this fleet has become more urgent, especially in light of regional tensions and Indonesia’s expanding airspace responsibilities—particularly as the country prepares to shift its capital to the newly developing city of Nusantara in East Kalimantan.
In recent years, Jakarta has leaned heavily on France for defense procurements. In 2024, the country finalized a major deal for 42 Dassault Rafale fighter jets, with the first batch expected to arrive by early 2026. It also struck agreements to purchase two French Scorpene submarines and 13 Thales ground control radar systems, signaling a strong commitment to upgrading its military technology. Five of those radars are earmarked for strategic deployment in the new capital.
However, Western arms deals often involve extended delivery timelines, complex political negotiations, and strict export controls. In contrast, buying used aircraft from China or Russia could allow for quicker delivery and more immediate operational deployment—factors that are particularly attractive for a country aiming to maintain strong defense readiness amid growing regional uncertainty.
The Russian Su-35, in particular, has a history with Indonesia. A deal signed back in 2018 for 11 aircraft was ultimately stalled due to concerns about budget limitations and potential U.S. sanctions under the Countering America’s Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA), which penalizes countries for major defense transactions with Russia. While still looming, those concerns about sanctions may be weighed differently now as Indonesia seeks a more assertive and self-directed path in its foreign policy.
Indonesia’s interest in a multipolar defense procurement strategy reflects a broader geopolitical balancing act. By not tying itself exclusively to any one supplier—be it the U.S., France, China, or Russia—Indonesia signals its intent to remain neutral and flexible in an increasingly divided global landscape.
Whether or not the purchases go forward, the consideration alone sends a strong message: Indonesia is determined to enhance its military capabilities on its terms, leveraging whatever partnerships offer the best value and strategic benefit. As the Indo Defence Expo approaches, defense analysts will be watching closely to see how Jakarta navigates these complex decisions—and what it means for the broader power dynamics in Southeast Asia.
