Indonesia Purchases 12 Leonardo M-346 F Fighter Jets from Italy

The Indonesian government, through the Ministry of Defence, has signed a contract to purchase 12 Leonardo M-346 F ‘Block 20’ light fighter jets from Italy. The agreement was formalised between the Italian company Leonardo and PT ESystem Solutions Indonesia. According to Leonardo’s official website, the purchase is a follow-up to a Letter of Intent announced last February. The procurement plan includes the localisation of various support capabilities, maintenance, major repairs, and training, as well as human resource development. Deliveries of the aircraft are expected to begin in 2030. Brigadier General Rico Ricardo Sirait, Head of the Information Bureau at the Ministry of Defence, confirmed the procurement plan. He stated that the acquisition is based on the operational needs of the Indonesian Air Force to support advanced pilot training and operational readiness. Rico added that the cooperation is directed towards providing long-term benefits through logistical support, personnel capacity building, and strengthening the national defence industry.