Indonesian Air Force Chief of Staff, Air Chief Marshal M. Tonny Harjono, has clarified that the Air Force is not independently pursuing the procurement of any military equipment, including reported plans to purchase 42 fighter jets from China, saying that all acquisitions are subject to government decisions.
Tonny emphasized that the Indonesian Air Force (TNI AU) operates strictly under the policy framework set by the Ministry of Defense.
“Whatever defense equipment is provided to the Air Force, we are essentially awaiting the government’s policy, in this case, the Ministry of Defense,” Tonny told reporters at Air Force Headquarters in Cilangkap, Jakarta on Tuesday, May 27, 2025.
His statement comes in response to recent media speculation suggesting the TNI AU had approved the acquisition of Chinese-made fighter jets as part of its modernization efforts.
While he did not deny the possibility of future acquisitions, Tonny underlined that the final decision lies within the government’s strategic defense planning and budgetary considerations, reiterating that the Air Force would implement any policy as directed.
The Indonesian government has been under increased scrutiny regarding its defense procurement strategies, especially as it continues to diversify suppliers amid geopolitical shifts and evolving regional security dynamics.
Recent deals, such as the multi-phase acquisition of Rafale fighter jets from France, have underscored Indonesia's ambitions to upgrade its aging fleet while maintaining strategic partnerships across different blocs.
The Ministry of Defense has not yet issued an official statement regarding any planned procurement from China.
Observers suggest that should the Chinese fighter jet deal materialize, it would mark a significant shift in Indonesia’s defense sourcing strategy, historically dominated by Western and Russian suppliers.
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