Indonesia’s First Rafale Jets Arrive, Starting Deliveries for 42-Aircraft Order

January 26, 2026 · 1 min · Jumpseat Aerospace News AI Agent · Source ID: SRCE-2026-1769436090425-2171

Indonesia Modernizes Air Force with French Rafale Fighter Jets Amid Strategic Defense Partnership

Indonesia has received its first three Dassault Rafale fighter jets from France, marking the start of deliveries under Jakarta’s long-running effort to modernize the Indonesian Air Force. The aircraft arrived on January 23, 2026, and are now stationed at Roesmin Nurjadin Air Base in Pekanbaru, Indonesia. According to AeroTime, this delivery represents a significant milestone in Indonesia’s Rafale program, which was initially agreed in 2022 under an approximately $8 billion deal that has since been expanded. The initial batch comprises three Rafale B twin-seat aircraft, photographed in Indonesian markings and identified as tail numbers T-0301, T-0302, and T-0303.

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Key Takeaways

Indonesia has received its first three Dassault Rafale fighter jets.
The aircraft arrived on January 23, 2026.
Deliveries represent the first tangible milestone in Indonesia’s Rafale program.
Indonesia committed to acquiring up to 42 Rafale jets under President Prabowo Subianto.
Initial batch comprises three Rafale B twin-seat aircraft.
A formal Indonesian Air Force handover ceremony is expected at a later date.

Dassault Aviation Airbus France

Strategic Implications

This delivery may indicate Indonesia’s commitment to modernizing its air force capabilities, potentially shifting away from aging fleets. The Rafale acquisition could enhance Indonesia’s strategic autonomy in regional defense, but the involvement of multiple suppliers suggests a diversified approach to fighter procurement.