Chinese-Pakistani Propaganda Crashes As Indonesia Says No Decision Yet On Buying J-10 Fighters

Post Operation Sindoor, amid a sustained Pakistan–China misinformation campaign glorifying the performance of Chinese-made military equipment, particularly the J-10 fighter paired with the PL-15 missile, reports had emerged claiming Indonesia had decided to acquire the Chinese jet.

These reports suggested Jakarta’s decision was influenced by the J-10’s supposed success during the Pakistan Air Force’s response to Operation Sindoor. It has now become clear that both claims were part of a coordinated disinformation effort pushed by Chinese and Pakistani outlets.

Indonesia’s Ministry of Defence has clarified that no decision has been made regarding the purchase of Chinese J-10 fighters. The ministry said the option remains under review, and that the country is still evaluating multiple platforms to strengthen its air force.

The J-10, developed by China’s Chengdu Aircraft Corporation and marketed as the “Vigorous Dragon,” has been promoted by Beijing as an affordable 4.5-generation fighter equipped with advanced radar and long-range air-to-air missiles like the PL-15.

However, Indonesian defence analyst Muhammad Fauzan Malufti dismissed claims linking Jakarta’s reported interest in the J-10 to the aircraft’s alleged performance against India’s Rafales. “Even if it played a role, I don’t think it is the main factor behind the decision,” he said.

Experts note that Indonesia’s consideration of the J-10 is driven primarily by cost and diversification, as Jakarta seeks to modernise its air fleet without over-relying on any single supplier.