The Indonesian air force has released the first images of its new Dassault Aviation Rafale fighter, as crews train in France to operate and maintain the jet.
The shot is of a two-seat Rafale B, T-0301, at an undisclosed location in France and features a light grey camouflage scheme.
Four pilots and 12 engineers are in training in France. Focus areas for the training include studying the fighter’s avionics and armament.
“This training is part of the air force’s strategic initiative to develop adaptive, modern, professional, and superior human resources,” says the Indonesian air force.
“This effort also emphasises Indonesia’s readiness to face a spectrum of modern threats that demand rapid adaptation, mastery of cutting-edge technology, and integrated combat capabilities.”
From 20 August, the pilots will transfer to France’s Saint-Dizier air base until December, where they will undergo simulation training and operate flight exercises.
Jakarta has orders for 42 Rafales but is considering buying additional examples.
In May, during a visit to Jakarta, French President Emmanuel Macron signed an agreement with Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto covering Rafales, howitzers, frigates, and submarines.
“I welcome Indonesia’s intent to consider an additional batch of Rafales,” said Dassault chief executive Eric Trappier, who was accompanying Macron.
The news coincided with a story in Indonesian state news agency Antara that Jakarta also is weighing the acquisition of Chinese-built AVIC/Chengdu J-10Cs.
In July, Jakarta finalised a deal for 48 Turkish Aerospace Kaan fighters with a 10-year delivery timeframe.
