Indonesia appears to be moving closer to acquiring the Leonardo M-346FA (Fighter Attack) jet trainer and light combat aircraft, with strong indications emerging despite the absence of an official contract announcement.
Multiple defence-industry and military-aviation signals suggest the Indonesian Air Force (TNI AU) is considering the procurement of up to 24 aircraft, potentially marking a significant step in its ongoing force-structure rebalancing.
While no formal confirmation has been issued by the Ministry of Defence or Leonardo, the interest is not new. Momentum surrounding the M-346FA intensified following the visit of the Chief of the Indonesian Air Force to Leonardo’s production facilities in Italy in July 2025, during which the aircraft reportedly featured prominently in discussions. Since then, recurring references from industry circles and defence observers have reinforced the view that the platform is under active evaluation.
If realised, the acquisition would align closely with TNI AU’s requirement for a dual-role advanced jet trainer and light combat aircraft, capable of supporting both pilot training and operational missions. Indonesia is currently navigating a complex transition period, introducing high-end fighters such as the Rafale, while simultaneously needing to replace ageing platforms and maintain sufficient mass for routine air-policing, maritime patrol support, and counter-insurgency-adjacent missions.
The M-346FA is well positioned for such a role. Derived from the widely adopted M-346 advanced jet trainer, the FA variant adds a fully integrated combat capability, allowing it to operate as a light multirole fighter while retaining its training pedigree. For air forces operating a mixed fleet of high-end fighters and legacy aircraft, the platform offers a cost-effective way to shoulder lower-intensity missions without drawing on frontline assets.
For Indonesia specifically, the aircraft could complement existing and future fleets by taking on lead-in fighter training (LIFT), operational conversion support, and limited combat tasks, including air-to-ground strike and secondary air-to-air roles.
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