Indonesia and France set up defense agreement for fighter jets, submarines

Prabowo and Macron back plan for Middle East peace summit

French President Emmanuel Macron, left, and Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto hold hands after a joint press conference following their bilateral meeting in Jakarta on May 28. © AP

ISMI DAMAYANTI

May 28, 2025 19:39 JST

JAKARTA -- Indonesia and France have signed a letter of intent to enhance defense cooperation, particularly in the development of strategic weaponry, including the procurement of Rafale fighter jets and Scorpene submarines.

"We will sign the letter of intent with the French ministers to advance defense collaboration between Indonesia and France, with a focus on strategic arms," Indonesian Defense Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin said ahead of a meeting between President Prabowo Subianto and President Emmanuel Macron in Jakarta on Wednesday.