Prabowo Discusses KF-21 Jet Project in Korea, Here's What Comes Next!
President Prabowo Subianto discussed the continuation of the KF-21/IFX fighter jet project during a bilateral meeting with the President of the Republic of Korea, Lee Jae Myung, at Cheong Wa Dae (Blue House) on Wednesday (1/4/2026). The government plans to promptly send a technical team to resolve various outstanding issues.
Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto stated that the project was one of the main agenda items in the discussions between the two countries.
“In the bilateral meeting, one of the issues raised was related to the IFX, and the President conveyed that a team will be sent soon, both technical and engineering in nature, while also hoping for a new project payment scheme,” said Airlangga to reporters.
This joint fighter jet development project has been underway since the era of Indonesia’s 6th President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono, continued under the 7th President Joko Widodo, and into the current administration.
According to Airlangga, there are several technical issues that need to be addressed, including those related to the aircraft specifications. In addition, the Indonesian government hopes for a new payment scheme in the project.
“There are indeed technical issues related to specifications and others, but the hope is that this will be resolved by sending the team there,” said Airlangga.
Beyond defence issues, other topics discussed included halal certification for the food and beverage industry. However, according to Airlangga, that matter has been settled after five institutions in South Korea signed a memorandum of understanding or Mutual Recognition Agreement with the Halal Product Assurance Organizing Body (BPJH).
Additionally, the issue of intellectual property rights protection was addressed. Airlangga expressed hope for treatment equivalent to that given to other partner countries, based on the principle of equality.
In the energy sector, the two countries explored opportunities for cooperation in supplying liquefied natural gas (LNG) and coal. South Korea, which still relies heavily on the Middle East for its energy needs, views Indonesia as an alternative energy source.
Nevertheless, Airlangga emphasised that these plans will be discussed further, considering Indonesia’s own increasing domestic demand for LNG.
“Well, this will certainly be a separate matter because our domestic demand for LNG is also rising, so that will be discussed going forward,” he added.