Indonesia’s Rafale Pilot Training Nears Completion, First Aircraft Unveiled
Jakarta, Indonesia – August 21, 2024 – The Indonesian Air Force (TNI-AU) is entering the final stage of training for its Rafale fighter jet program, commencing full-mission simulation and flight instruction on August 20th. This milestone coincides with the public debut of the first Indonesian Rafale, a two-seat ‘D’ variant, marking a notable step towards bolstering Indonesia’s air defense capabilities.
The TNI-AU’s Rafale program, initiated with a contract signed in February 2022, encompasses the acquisition of 42 Rafale aircraft – 36 F3-R single-seat versions and six D two-seat trainers – from Dassault Aviation. The deal, valued at approximately $8.1 billion, also includes a complete support package, encompassing training, logistics, and weapons systems.
The initial cohort of Indonesian pilots and ground crew are currently undergoing training at the École de chasse (fighter School) at Mont-de-Marsan Air base in France. This final phase will focus on integrating all aspects of Rafale operation,including air-to-air combat,air-to-ground strikes,reconnaissance,and electronic warfare. The training program is being conducted in collaboration with the French Air and Space Force (Armée de l’Air et de l’Espace).
The first Rafale delivered to Indonesia, registration number F-16001, was publicly displayed at Halim Perdanakusuma air Force Base in Jakarta on August 20th. The two-seat ‘D’ variant will primarily be used for advanced pilot training and operational conversion. Deliveries of the remaining aircraft are scheduled to continue through 2026, with the TNI-AU expecting to achieve full operational capability by 2027.
Indonesia’s acquisition of the Rafale is part of a broader modernization effort aimed at replacing its aging fleet of F-5 Tiger II and Hawk 200/209 aircraft. The Rafale’s advanced capabilities,including its AESA radar,SPECTRA electronic warfare suite,and a wide range of air-to-air and air-to-ground weaponry,will considerably enhance Indonesia’s ability to safeguard its vast archipelago and maritime interests.
The TNI-AU plans to base the Rafale fleet at Roesmin Nurjadin Air Force Base in Pekanbaru, Sumatra, and Sultan Hasanuddin Air Force Base in Makassar, Sulawesi, strategically positioning the aircraft to cover key areas of Indonesian airspace. The program also includes the integration of Indonesian-specific weaponry and systems onto the Rafale platform.
