Indonesia's Defense Ministry plans to purchase Chengdu J-10 fighter jets from China, though still under review by the Air Force. China has expressed caution in exporting military products to prevent them from falling into the wrong hands. Defense Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin stated the jets will soon fly in Jakarta.
China's Defense Ministry is adopting a cautious approach regarding Indonesia's plan to purchase Chengdu J-10 fighter jets or by any other parties. This is to ensure the aircraft do not fall into the wrong hands. "China always takes a cautious and responsible stance in the export of military products," said Spokesperson for China's Defense Ministry Zhang Xiaogang during a press conference in Beijing on Thursday (30/10).
On October 15, 2025, Indonesian Defense Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin stated that the Chengdu J-10 fighter jets made in China would soon fly in Jakarta, without providing further details on the flight timeline. This statement indicates progress in the acquisition plan. Zhang Xiaogang added, "We are willing to cooperate with peace-loving countries to share new achievements in defense equipment development and jointly safeguard regional and international peace and stability."
Meanwhile, Head of the Defense Information Bureau of the Defense Ministry Secretariat Brigadier General TNI Frega Wenas Inkiriwang said that the Chengdu J-10 fighter jets intended for purchase by the Defense Ministry are still under review by the Indonesian Air Force. This review is a crucial step to ensure alignment with Indonesia's defense needs. The plan reflects Indonesia's efforts to strengthen military capabilities while maintaining bilateral ties with China.