Post by : Shakul

Indonesia has taken another major step in strengthening its military capabilities after officially receiving new defense aircraft, including six French-made Rafale fighter jets, during a ceremony in Jakarta.

President Prabowo Subianto attended the handover ceremony at Halim Perdanakusuma Air Force Base on Monday, where several newly acquired military aircraft were presented to the Indonesian Air Force.

The defense equipment included six Rafale fighter jets, four Dassault Falcon 8X aircraft, and one Airbus A400M Atlas military transport aircraft. The aircraft are part of Indonesia’s broader military modernization program.

Indonesia had signed an $8.1 billion agreement with France in 2022, when Prabowo was serving as defense minister, to purchase a total of 42 Rafale fighter jets for the country’s air force.

Speaking after the ceremony, President Prabowo said Indonesia would continue improving its defense capabilities in response to growing global geopolitical uncertainty and regional security challenges.

He stated that Indonesia’s goal is to maintain stability and strengthen deterrence capabilities to protect the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Prabowo emphasized that Indonesia has no aggressive intentions and only seeks to ensure national security through a stronger and more modern military force.

Defense analysts believe the addition of advanced aircraft like the Rafale jets will significantly improve Indonesia’s air defense and operational readiness in the Indo-Pacific region.

#world news #indonesia #Defense