Indonesia has received its first batch of advanced Rafale fighter jets from France, marking a major step in modernizing its air force, defence officials confirmed on Monday. A total of three Rafale aircraft, part of a multi-billion-dollar defence deal signed with France in 2022, have been delivered and are now stationed at Roesmin Nurjadin Air Base in Sumatra, Defence Ministry spokesperson Rico Ricardo Sirait said. The aircraft, built by French aerospace manufacturer Dassault Aviation, represents the first confirmed delivery under Jakarta’s plan to acquire as many as 42 Rafales, alongside French frigates and submarines—as part of wider efforts to upgrade ageing military hardware.

The move boosts Indonesia’s air combat and deterrence capabilities in a region facing growing strategic competition. Additional Rafale deliveries are expected later in 2026 as part of the planned deal.