The Voice News: Indonesia Strengthens Defence Ties with France through Major Military Equipment Deals
Indonesia is solidifying its position as France’s key defence partner in Southeast Asia with a landmark preliminary defence pact that paves the way for significant military procurement and strategic cooperation. Announced during French President Emmanuel Macron’s visit to Jakarta on May 28, the agreement opens avenues for Indonesia to place new orders for cutting-edge French military hardware, including the Rafale fighter jets, Scorpene-class submarines, and light frigates.
At a joint press conference, Macron expressed optimism about the evolving defence relationship, stating, “The letter of intent signed today marks a promising step toward new orders of Rafales, Scorpenes, and light frigates, underscoring the deepening strategic partnership between France and Indonesia.” Indonesian Defence Minister Prabowo Subianto echoed this sentiment, highlighting France’s role as a vital partner in Indonesia’s military modernization and domestic defence industry development, particularly through joint production initiatives and technology transfers.
This development builds on previous agreements, such as Indonesia’s 2022 contract for 42 Rafale jets, with the first batch of six expected to be delivered by early 2026, according to Air Force Chief Mohamad Tonny Harjono. Additionally, in 2024, Indonesia secured a deal with France’s Naval Group for two Scorpene submarines, while in 2023, it purchased 13 long-range air surveillance radars from French defence technology leader Thales.
Dassault Aviation, the manufacturer of Rafale jets, saw its shares rise by 3.4% following the announcement, despite recent scrutiny over Rafale performance in South Asian air conflicts.
Broader Strategic and Economic Cooperation
The defence agreement is part of a wider set of bilateral engagements, with France and Indonesia signing over 20 memorandums of understanding (MOUs) valued at more than $11 billion. These include pivotal cooperation in the electric vehicle (EV) battery supply chain, leveraging Indonesia’s status as the world’s largest nickel producer and holder of the largest nickel reserves.
A notable MOU was signed between French mining giant Eramet and Indonesian sovereign wealth funds Danantara and the Indonesia Investment Authority (INA). The partnership aims to create a strategic investment platform to develop Indonesia’s nickel sector, from mining to processing, to support the growing global demand for EV batteries. Danantara’s Chief Investment Officer Pandu Sjahrir emphasized the long-term financial commitment, while Eramet brings technical expertise in large-scale mining projects.
French corporations Danone and TotalEnergies also participated in agreements focused on expanding their presence in the Indonesian market, signaling robust commercial ties alongside defence cooperation.
Discussions on Middle East Crisis and Diplomatic Prospects
Beyond trade and defence, Macron and Prabowo also addressed the escalating conflict in Gaza. Indonesia, which does not currently maintain diplomatic relations with Israel, conveyed its position on Palestine recognition as a precondition for establishing ties with Israel. Prabowo stated, “When Palestine is recognized by Israel, Indonesia stands ready to recognize Israel and open diplomatic relations.” Macron reiterated his support for a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, underscoring France’s commitment to peace in the region.
Regional and Global Significance
Macron’s visit to Indonesia marks the second leg of his Southeast Asian tour, following a stop in Vietnam and preceding his trip to Singapore. The deepening France-Indonesia ties reflect broader strategic dynamics in the Indo-Pacific region, where countries are diversifying defence partnerships amid evolving geopolitical challenges.
The expanding military and economic cooperation between France and Indonesia demonstrates Jakarta’s intent to bolster its defence capabilities with advanced Western technology, while also enhancing its strategic autonomy and industrial base.
In summary, Indonesia’s growing engagement with France signifies a major shift in Southeast Asia’s defence landscape, combining military modernization with sustainable industrial and economic development, and underpinning Indonesia’s role as a regional power with broad international partnerships.