Indonesia Brings Fighter Jets And Submarines From France

Minister of Defense Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin (ANTARA)

JAKARTA - Minister of Defense (Menhan) Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin stated that French President Emmanuel Macron's visit to Indonesia would strengthen cooperation in various strategic sectors, including defense.

One of the focuses of cooperation is the procurement of main weapons systems (alutsista), such as Rafale fighter aircraft and French-made Scorpene Evolved submarines.

Sjafrie made this statement after welcoming Macron's arrival at Halim Perdanakusuma Airport, Jakarta, Tuesday, May 27.

He revealed that one of the main agendas in this state visit was the signing of a letter of intent (LoI) between Indonesia and France regarding the strengthening of the defense sector.

"We will sign a letter of intent with other ministers. In essence, we will develop defense cooperation between Indonesia and France, especially regarding strategic defense equipment," said Sjafrie.

He added that the procurement of Rafale fighter aircraft and the Scorpene Evolved submarine was part of the cooperation. Although he has not provided further details, Sjafrie said that this initiative is a continuation of the plan that President Prabowo Subianto submitted at the G20 Summit in Brazil in 2024, which affirms Indonesia's commitment to strengthening national defense.

President Macron's state visit is scheduled to take place from 27 to 29 May 2025 as part of a diplomatic tour in the Indo-Pacific region, which also includes Vietnam and Singapore.

While in Indonesia, Macron will attend a number of official agendas, including a bilateral meeting with President Prabowo Subianto at the State Palace on Wednesday, May 28.

In addition to the state agenda, President Macron is also scheduled to visit the Military Academy (Akmil) in Magelang and Borobudur Temple on Thursday, May 29. During the visit, President Prabowo is scheduled to accompany Macron.