Indonesia military modernization

The defense minister would likely follow the broad approach of President Joko Widodo, but with a heavier emphasis on defense.

Despite a rash of major defense acquisitions, the country still spends a relatively low percentage of its GDP on defense.

The fleet of 12 Mirage 2000-5 jets is intended to bridge the air force over until the delivery of a new fleet of French fighters beginning in early 2026.

The country has long sought to balance the operational and strategic needs of the military against the political imperative to contribute to economic development.

A deal would make Indonesia the second Southeast Asian nation after the Philippines to acquire the potent supersonic missile.

The European conflict has laid bare several vulnerabilities in the TNI's modernization plans.

If the country wants to expand its domestic defense manufacturing sector, it needs to make itself a more attractive market for foreign arms contractors.

The two purchases reflect both the ambition of Indonesia's defense modernization plans and its promiscuous approach to procurements.

Fear of China is driving the region's recent spate of military procurements – but it's not the only factor.

The inauguration of the two new aviation squadrons highlighted ongoing efforts by the Southeast Asian state to develop and modernize its military.

A closer look at the status of a key development within bilateral defense ties.