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.
"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 Russian military equipment including Sukhoi jets and Mi-35 helicopters.
