JAKARTA, Indonesia (AP) — The defense ministers of France and Indonesia have taken significant steps to strengthen their military cooperation, aiming to bolster regional stability amid rising tensions, particularly those posed by China’s growing maritime presence.
During their meeting on January 31, 2025, French Defense Minister Sébastien Lecornu and his Indonesian counterpart, Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin, agreed to pursue closer collaboration through various means, including technology exchange and joint military exercises, as reported by Indonesian Defense Ministry spokesperson Brig. Gen. Frega Wenas.
"The two countries can collaborate through technology exchange and other forms of cooperation," Wenas stated, highlighting the mutual interests of both defense forces. This commitment signals continued efforts to navigate the intricacies of current geopolitical challenges.
Adding to the momentum, the French Embassy noted earlier this week the deployment of France's aircraft carrier strike group to Indonesia for the first time. The Charles De Gaulle, France's premier nuclear-powered aircraft carrier, made notable stops in Bali and Lombok, where it engaged in logistical activities as part of its six-month mission through the Pacific, which commenced last November.
The Charles De Gaulle engaged with military leading figures from eight nations during its exercises within the Straits of Malacca, Sunda, and Lombok. This engagement underlines France's commitment to security cooperation within the Indo-Pacific region amid growing apprehensions over China's extensive maritime claims.
Military cooperation between Indonesia and France has seen heightened growth over recent years. This surge can be traced back to the time when President Prabowo Subianto served as Indonesia’s defense minister. Notably, Indonesia acquired 42 Rafale and Dassault Aviation fighter jets last year, with the first deliveries of the advanced jets expected by 2026.
The Indonesian government is also set to receive two Scorpene Evolved submarines from France and has announced plans to secure 13 Thales Ground Control Interception radars. Five of these radar systems are to be installed in Indonesia's forthcoming capital, Nusantara.
These acquisitions occur against the backdrop of rising tensions across the region, especially concerning the contentious South China Sea, where China has been asserting extensive territorial claims. Indonesia, which does not claim territory within the South China Sea, has nevertheless had its own confrontations with China, particularly over fishing rights near the Natuna Islands—territory within Indonesia's exclusive economic zone.
Despite China’s aggressive stance, attempts to negotiate frameworks for conflict prevention involving the Association of Southeast Asian Nations have produced little progress. This stagnation increases the importance of enhanced defense collaborations between nations like Indonesia and France, serving as bulwarks against potential conflicts.
Through this multifaceted partnership, Indonesia and France aim to navigate the challenges posed by regional powers, enhancing their defensive capabilities and fostering stability across the Indo-Pacific. With technology exchanges and strategic military acquisitions on the agenda, both nations are poised to play pivotal roles within this highly dynamic geopolitical theater.
The agreement forged between Sébastien Lecornu and Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin showcases not only the strengthening of bilateral relations but also the urgent need for collaborative strategies to mitigate growing threats. The commitments made signal significant progress as both nations prepare for the complex realities of modern defense needs.