Rafale fighter jets to debut at Independence Day air show

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3 hours ago

Jakarta (ANTARA) – Indonesia’s newly acquired Rafale fighter jets will make their public debut during the upcoming 81st Independence Day celebrations, marking a high-profile milestone in the nation’s military modernization campaign.

Speaking after a full dress rehearsal at the Merdeka Palace on Wednesday, State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi confirmed that two Rafales will take to the skies above Jakarta as part of an expansive aerial display scheduled for the official Commemoration Ceremony of the Proclamation of Independence on Monday (August 17).

“This is the first time two Indonesian Rafale jets have been deployed for the display,” Prasetyo told reporters, adding his hope that the fleet’s presence will expand in future national celebrations.

“I would like to see more—let’s just pray,” he noted.

The air show for the 81st Independence Day celebrations will feature approximately 81 aircraft and helicopters operated by the Indonesian Air Force, Army, Navy, National Police, and the National Search and Rescue Agency (Basarnas).

The deployed fleet encompasses defense systems including fighter jets, transport aircraft, reconnaissance planes, trainers, and rotary-wing assets.

Among the aircraft prepared are the Rafale, F-16, Sukhoi Su-27/30, Hawk 100/200, T-50i Golden Eagle, Airbus A400M, CN-295, and Boeing 737-200.

Participating helicopters include the Super Puma, Caracal, Indonesian Army Apache, Indonesian Navy Panther, National Police AW-169, as well as Basarnas AS365 Dauphin and AW-139 units.

The aerial parade will also feature aerobatic performances by the Indonesian Air Force’s Jupiter Aerobatic Team flying KT-1B Woong Bee aircraft, along with the Dynamic Pegasus helicopter demonstration team.

Prasetyo emphasized that the inclusion of advanced platforms like the French-made Rafale reflects the government’s ongoing commitment to upgrading the defense sector’s primary weapons systems to match the technical skill of Indonesian service personnel.

“It turns out we are not lacking in human resources; the important thing is that we prepare the best equipment. All the nation’s children will give their best for their country,” he noted.