Indonesia has agreed to expand defence industry cooperation with France, just days after finalising a major defence partnership with the US and holding energy talks with Russia.
President Prabowo Subianto was hosted by French President Emmanuel Macron at the Élysée Palace on 14th April, where both leaders discussed strengthening strategic cooperation. A statement from the Indonesian government said this includes procurement of defence equipment and reinforcement of the domestic defence industry, adding that France is a strategic partner for Indonesia in Europe.
The two sides also agreed to cooperate on energy transition and the development of new and renewable energy. Indonesian officials said the agreement supports both countries’ shared interests in modernising defence capabilities and expanding clean energy collaboration.
Indonesia is already a major arms buyer from France. In 2022, then defence minister Prabowo signed an $8.1 billion deal for 42 French made Rafale jets. Deliveries have already begun as part of Indonesia’s effort to modernise its ageing military.
Prabowo met Russian President Vladimir Putin at the Kremlin on 13th April, flying directly from Moscow to Paris the following day. According to Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya, the leaders discussed strengthening strategic cooperation, particularly in energy, mineral resources, and national industrial development.
On 13th April, US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth hosted Indonesian Defence Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin and announced a Major Defence Cooperation Partnership. A joint statement highlighted shared commitments to peace and stability in the Indo Pacific.
Indonesia also recently signed a trade deal with US President Donald Trump and joined the so called Board of Peace, although Prabowo has said Indonesia will not pay the $1 billion fee required for permanent membership.
Prabowo has defended his intensive travel schedule, saying, “Brothers and sisters, it’s to secure oil, I have to go everywhere.”
Indonesia has faced pressure from rising global oil prices linked to conflict in the Middle East. The country maintains a non aligned foreign policy and joined the BRICS bloc in January 2025, which includes Russia and China.
Officials say Indonesia’s engagement with multiple powers reflects a pragmatic approach aimed at securing resources, strengthening defence capabilities, and maintaining strategic autonomy.
Indonesia’s geographic position along the Malacca Strait gives it significant strategic importance. The strait is the world’s busiest oil shipping chokepoint, according to the US Energy Information Administration.
In the first half of 2025, it handled an estimated 23.2 million barrels per day, around 29% of global maritime oil flows. Most China bound oil passes through the strait.
Jakarta is currently considering a US request for overflight clearance. Analysts say approval could be interpreted as closer alignment with Washington amid broader US China tensions.
Defence analysts say the Rafale deal forms a key part of Indonesia’s air force modernisation, improving deterrence in the Indo Pacific where maritime security is a priority.
The French partnership also extends to energy transition cooperation, aligning with Indonesia’s long term goals to diversify energy sources and reduce reliance on fossil fuels amid global price volatility.
Indonesia’s recent sequence of high level meetings, from Moscow to Paris and Washington, underscores what analysts describe as an effort to position the country as a middle power navigating great power competition while maintaining a non aligned stance.
Further details on specific defence procurement and energy projects with France are expected in the coming weeks as bilateral working groups continue discussions.
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