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.

“It’s still being analysed and reviewed. At the moment, we are considering all platforms that can fulfil our need to help guard our sovereignty and territorial integrity,” said Brigadier General Frega Wenas Inkiriwang, the ministry’s spokesman.

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.