Why does Indonesia want to buy Pakistan’s JF-17 fighter jet?

Pakistan’s JF-17 Thunder fighter jet is witnessing growing interest in the global defence market, with Indonesia now emerging as a potential customer, following earlier expressions of interest from Saudi Arabia and Bangladesh.

This rising demand highlights the aircraft’s appeal as a cost-effective and capable multirole fighter for air forces seeking modernization without excessive budget pressure.

Indonesia’s interest in acquiring the JF-17 stems from its ongoing efforts to modernize an aging and highly diverse Air Force fleet amid evolving regional security challenges in the Indo-Pacific region.

Developed jointly by Pakistan and China, the JF-17 is widely viewed as an affordable alternative, with an estimated unit cost of USD 25–30 million, compared to over USD 100 million for many Western or European fighter jets.

This pricing advantage allows Indonesia to complement higher-end platforms, such as France’s Rafale or Türkiye’s KAAN fighter, without placing excessive strain on its defence budget. While Jakarta is still evaluating premium fighter options from France and Türkiye, the JF-17 could serve as a practical backbone aircraft for routine missions.

The JF-17 would enable Indonesia to build a layered air power structure, using the Thunder for missions such as maritime patrol, air interception, and precision strike operations across its vast archipelagic territory, while reserving more advanced fighters for high-threat combat scenarios.

Why Indonesia May Choose the JF-17

One of the key drivers behind Indonesia’s interest is fleet renewal and diversification. The Indonesian Air Force operates one of the most diverse fighter inventories in the world, creating logistical and maintenance challenges. By sourcing aircraft from Pakistan, Jakarta aims to reduce dependence on major suppliers such as the United States, France, or China, while also mitigating future supply-chain and geopolitical risks.

From an operational standpoint, the JF-17 Block III offers several advanced features, including an AESA radar, beyond-visual-range missiles, and anti-ship strike capability, making it well-suited for Indonesia’s maritime security requirements, particularly in sensitive regions such as the South China Sea.

While Pakistan has highlighted the aircraft’s combat experience, claims regarding its performance in recent regional conflicts remain unverified by independent sources.

Affordability is further enhanced by the possibility of a comprehensive package deal, reportedly involving around 40 aircraft, along with support systems, training programs, drones, and air-defence elements. Such a bundled approach would offer simplified maintenance, rapid deployment, and operational flexibility across dispersed air bases.

Strategic and Geopolitical Implications

Beyond operational considerations, a JF-17 deal would strengthen defence ties between Pakistan and Indonesia, both Muslim-majority nations, and align with President Prabowo Subianto’s vision of greater defence self-reliance. It would also enhance bilateral military cooperation and training exchanges.

Interest from Saudi Arabia, Bangladesh, and now Indonesia represents a significant boost for Pakistan’s defence export ambitions, potentially positioning the jf-17 price as one of the most successful low-cost fighter exports in the developing world.

However, any final agreement remains subject to approval from China, as the JF-17 program includes Chinese technology and components. Beijing’s consent is mandatory for third-party exports, making diplomatic coordination a crucial factor in any future deal.

If approved, Indonesia’s acquisition could mark a major milestone for Pakistan’s defence industry, further solidifying the JF-17 Thunder’s place in the global fighter aircraft market.

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