Prabowo Delivers Fighter Jets and Missiles to TNI: Our Interest is Protecting Our Territory

President Prabowo Subianto has handed over six Rafale fighter jets and several other main weapons systems (alutsista) to the TNI, stating that Indonesia’s primary interest is the protection of its own territory. “I believe this is one of the milestones in increasing our strength. We must continuously enhance our defence capabilities to serve as a deterrent. We have no interests other than protecting our own territory,” said Prabermowo following the handover ceremony at Halim Perdanakusuma Air Force Base, Jakarta, on Monday (18/5/2026).

Prabowo also addressed the current state of global geopolitics, which he described as being fraught with uncertainty. The Head of State emphasised that a strong defence is a fundamental requirement for stability and a guarantee of Indonesia’s sovereignty. “I believe the core point is that in the future, we will continue to build our strength. We want to secure our airspace, our maritime territory, and certainly our land territory,” he asserted.

The handover process from the government to the TNI was marked by the ceremonial unveiling of the fighter jets. President Prabowo performed a traditional ceremony by sprinkling flower water on one of the Rafale units, followed by the formal handing over of the aircraft keys. The event concluded with a photo session featuring President Prabowo, invited guests, and members of the Red and White Cabinet. The former Minister of Defence reaffirmed that the government remains committed to the continuous strengthening of Indonesia’s defence assets.