Boeing confirms F-15EX fighter campaign with Indonesia is no longer active

Boeing has confirmed that it is no longer pursuing the sale of F-15EX fighter jets to Indonesia, effectively ending a high-profile campaign that had been presented as a cornerstone of Jakarta’s air force modernization plans.

Speaking to reporters at the Singapore Airshow, Bernd Peters, vice president of business development and strategy at Boeing Defense, said the F-15 partnership with Indonesia was “no longer an active campaign.” He declined to provide further details, referring questions to the U.S. and Indonesian governments.

The decision marks a clear shift from plans announced in 2023, when Indonesia’s Ministry of Defense signed an agreement with Boeing covering up to 24 F-15EX aircraft. The deal was contingent on U.S. government approval and had not progressed to a signed contract.

The U.S. State Department had previously notified Congress of a potential sale of up to 36 F-15EX fighters to Indonesia, and the notification was not blocked. However, Indonesian officials had acknowledged as late as 2025 that procurement discussions were still ongoing and that no final contract had been concluded.

Boeing’s withdrawal comes as Indonesia advances other fighter programs. The country has begun receiving Dassault Rafale aircraft, the first deliveries under a 42-jet order signed with France. Jakarta has also been seeking an agreement with Turkey for the supply of the 5th generation KAAN fighter jet, in addition to considering the Chinese J-10C jet as a possible short-term alternative.

Indonesia initially expressed interest in acquiring the F-35, but was not approved for the program by the United States, leading Washington to offer the F-15EX as an alternative. The F-15EX, while among the most capable fourth-generation fighters available, carries a higher acquisition cost than some competing platforms.

Neither the Indonesian government nor U.S. authorities have publicly commented on the reasons behind Boeing’s decision to step away from the campaign. For now, the F-15EX appears to be off the table for Indonesia as the country continues reshaping its future combat aircraft inventory.

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