Indonesia decides to buy advanced Russian Su-35 Jets

Indonesia's defense minister said that the country would buy Russian-made Su-35 jets following negotiations between the two countries.

Indonesia's defense ministry has decided to purchase Russian Sukhoi Su-35 jets to replace its aging US-made F-5 fleet, the country's state news agency Antara reported.

Indonesia previously expressed interest in the Su-35 jet, with the country's ambassador to Russia telling RIA Novosti that the budget for purchasing the planes has already been established. Indonesian legislator Tubagus Hasanuddin previously said that Russia could provide Indonesia with a loan to buy the jets, although no further details were revealed.

"We have agreed to buy a squadron of Sukhoi Su-35s from Russia to replace the F-5 Tiger jet fighters," defense minister Ryamizard Ryacudu told Antara.

He contract between Indonesia and Russia will be signed later in September, according to the minister. Jakarta will buy Su-35 jets in several stages, depending on the country's financial capacity, Ryacudu said.
"We want to buy a squadron [of Sukhoi Su-35s], but the purchase will be adjusted, based on the financial capability of the government," Ryacudu added.

Indonesia and Russia previously signed a $1 billion contract in 2007 under which Indonesia purchased Russianmilitary equipment including Sukhoi jets and Mi-35 helicopters.