• Indonesia plans to buy 42 Chinese-made J-10C fighter jets as part of military modernization efforts.
• The deal marks Indonesia's first purchase of Chinese fighter aircraft, expected to strengthen air defense capabilities.
• The budget for the acquisition is around US$9 billion, pending confirmation of the delivery timeline.
• Indonesia is also modernizing its military fleet with additional fighter jets from France and Turkey.
• This acquisition may influence regional geopolitical dynamics amid China's increasing military presence.

Indonesia has announced plans to acquire at least 42 Chinese Chengdu J-10C fighter jets, marking the country’s first non-Western aircraft purchase. Defence Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin emphasized the significance of the deal, stating, “They will be flying over Jakarta soon,” although he did not disclose specific delivery timelines or further details about the acquisition process, according to channelnewsasia.

This purchase aligns with Indonesia's broader military modernization strategy initiated under President Prabowo Subianto, who intends to enhance the nation's defense capabilities through diversified procurement sources. The budget for the fighter jets is confirmed to be over US$9 billion, as stated by Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa, who added, "But I have to double check when those aircraft will arrive in Jakarta from Beijing," according to scmp and aa.

The Indonesian Air Force is reportedly reviewing the capabilities of the J-10C jet to ensure that its acquisition would bolster national air defense standards. This model is equipped with modern technologies, including advanced engines and active electronically scanned array radars. Additionally, military analysts warn that this acquisition might shift Indonesia’s security alignment given China's increasing influence in the region, and could incite sensitivities related to territorial dynamics in the South China Sea, as noted by channelnewsasia and scmp.

Moreover, this acquisition comes with Indonesia's concurrent plans to expand its fleet through other international purchases, including French Rafale jets, with 42 units ordered earlier this year and expected to be delivered by early 2024. Additionally, discussions are ongoing about acquiring KAAN fighter jets from Turkey, showcasing Jakarta’s intent to modernize its military capabilities and diversify its sources, as highlighted by aa and scmp.