Warning: paradigm shift. Indonesia, whose defense minister Prabowo Subianto is undoubtedly the next candidate for the presidency (he was twice, beaten by the current head of state Joko Widodo) is now betting on France in terms of defense after the purchase of Rafale. The government of the archipelago also wishes to buy two Scorpene submarines, like those sold to neighboring Malaysia.
Beyond a firm contract for 42 Rafale F3Rs, Indonesia is interested in two Scorpene submarines. The ball is in the court of Naval Group which will have to show its know-how and the performance of the submarine.
“Our cooperation also extends to the naval field: Indonesia has announced an intention to purchase two French-made Scorpène submarines”, tweeted Thursday morning from Jakarta the Minister of the Armed Forces, Florence Parly. Indonesian Defense Minister Prabowo Subianto also signed a letter of intent with Naval Group on Thursday, in the presence of Florence Parly, which could eventually lead to an order for two Scorpene submarines.
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