Indonesia’s Ministry of Defense has finalized a contract with Italian defense company Leonardo to acquire 12 M-346F “Block 20” light multirole fighter jets, with deliveries starting in 2030. This deal, announced in Rome on July 21, 2026, builds on a Letter of Intent signed earlier that year and represents a major milestone in Indonesia’s military modernization. Beyond aircraft procurement, the agreement emphasizes local capability development in areas such as maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO), training, and human resource development, strengthening Indonesia’s defense industry. The M-346F Block 20 is designed for both advanced pilot training and combat missions, featuring modern systems like AESA radar, Link 16 tactical data link, electronic countermeasures, and air-to-air refueling capability. With this acquisition, Indonesia becomes the 23rd operator of the M-346 family and the first in Asia to deploy the Block 20 variant. The aircraft will be supported by a Ground Based Training System (GBTS) that integrates simulation and live flying through a Live, Virtual, and Constructive (LVC) environment, enhancing pilot readiness for next-generation fighters. Leonardo highlighted that the program will contribute significantly to Indonesia’s defense modernization while fostering long-term industrial cooperation and local aerospace growth. Globally, the M-346 family has logged over 170,000 flight hours, serving both as a training platform and light combat aircraft, and has even been selected by the Italian Air Force for its Frecce Tricolori aerobatic team.Source: https://indonesiabusinesspost.com/6975/defense-and-security/indonesia-signs-deal-with-italy-s-leonardo-for-12-m-346fa-fighter-jets (ICE GIACARTA)

Fonte notizia: Indonesia Business Post, 22 July 2026