“The official reception ceremony will be held at a later date, adjusted to the President’s agenda and availability,” Brigadier General Rico Sirait, head of the Defence Information Bureau, said in Jakarta on Tuesday.
Sirait said the French-built aircraft are currently stationed in Pekanbaru, Riau Province, after being flown from France by Indonesian Air Force pilots in mid-January.
“The three Rafale fighter jets have arrived in Indonesia and are now at Roesmin Nurjadin Air Base,” he said, adding they have completed administrative and technical handover procedures.
He said the jets are ready for use by the Indonesian Air Force and would strengthen its ability to secure national airspace across the vast archipelago.
Related news: Indonesia, France discuss 2026 arrival of Rafale fighter jets
On Sept. 13, Air Force Chief of Staff Air Chief Marshal Mohamad Tony Harjono said Indonesia has ordered a total of 42 French-made Rafale fighter jets through the defence ministry.
He said the 4.5-generation aircraft would reinforce the air force’s existing fleet of T-50 trainers, Hawk 100/200s, Sukhoi Su-30s and F-16 fighters, improving combat readiness and air defence posture.
Harjono said the air force has begun building maintenance facilities and training specialised technical personnel to support Rafale operations, including at Roesmin Nurjadin Air Base.
On Sept. 22, Harjono inspected progress on infrastructure development at the base, which will serve as a key operating location for the new fighters.
Separately, on Dec. 9, Deputy Air Force Chief of Staff Air Marshal Tedi Rizalihadi met French National Armament Director Lieutenant General Gael Diaz de Tuesta in Jakarta to discuss delivery preparations and operational deployment plans.
Related news: Indonesian Air Force Chief inspects Rafale jet support facility
Translator: Walda M, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
Copyright © ANTARA 2026
