Indonesia signals intent to buy Airbus A330 MRTT tankers for air force

During a visit to Halim Perdanakusuma Air Base, Indonesian Air Force Deputy Chief of Staff Air Marshal Tedi Rizalihadi affirmed the force’s desire to buy Airbus A330 Multi-Role Tanker Transport aircraft, mirroring the fleet used by the French Air and Space Force. He highlighted the aircraft’s role as a mobile command-and-control platform that can coordinate fighters and transports, integrate communications, and provide real-time mission monitoring.

The MRTT can also refuel other aircraft in flight, carry 110 tons of fuel and transport up to 88 personnel with equipment. Given Indonesia’s expansive territory and sizable air fleet, the service estimates a need for at least three tankers. Final acquisition authority rests with the Ministry of Defense, and the interest follows a joint French-Indonesian exercise where French Rafales refuelled over Jakarta as part of the Pegase 2026 mission.