Jakarta. The Indonesian Defense Ministry officially confirmed on Tuesday the final procurement of 18 additional French-made Rafale fighter jets, solidifying the total order count to 42.

This activation of the final tranche followed the first and second tranches, which comprised six and 18 Rafale jets respectively, activated in September 2022 and August 2023.

"With the initiation of the third tranche, Dassault Aviation, the manufacturer, will promptly begin the production of an additional 18 4.5-generation fighters, culminating in the Indonesian government's acquisition of 42 jets," the Defense Ministry said in a statement. 

Indonesia anticipates the delivery of the first batch of Rafale jets in 2026.

Eric Trappier, Chairman and CEO of Dassault Aviation, expressed the company's commitment to fostering enduring partnerships with Indonesia. 

“In choosing the Rafale, Indonesia has opted for a unique tool for sovereignty and operational independence that will help consolidate its role as a major regional power. This choice also consolidates ambitious industrial and academic cooperations,” Trappier said in a statement published on the company’s website.

The order for 42 Rafale jets was formally endorsed by the Indonesian government during an event held in Saint-Cloud, France, attended by Defense Minister Prabowo Subianto and French Defense Minister Florence Parly on Feb. 10, 2022.

Dassault Aviation confirmed that the acquisition encompasses an all-inclusive turnkey solution. It includes comprehensive provisions such as aircrew training, logistical support for multiple Indonesian air bases, and the establishment of a training center equipped with two full-mission simulators.