France's Pegase Mission Boosts Indo-Pacific Security Ties

France's air force made a significant stopover in Indonesia's capital, Jakarta, as part of its Pegase mission aimed at strengthening military cooperation in the Indo-Pacific. The mission displayed advanced aircraft and highlighted France's commitment to regional security amid growing Chinese maritime activities. Bilateral meetings between French and Indonesian leaders were also scheduled.

France's air force made a strategic stopover in Indonesia's capital, Jakarta, on Wednesday, showcasing its Pegase mission as part of a broader initiative to bolster security cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region. Amid escalating Chinese maritime activities, the visit underscored France's dedicated commitment to regional stability.

The mission featured two Rafale fighter jets, a tanker transport plane, and an A400M Airbus military transport aircraft, with Brig. Gen. Guillaume Thomas, Chief of the 2024 Pegase mission, emphasizing the importance of enhancing military ties between France and Indonesia during a news conference. Thomas affirmed France's role as a proactive power committed to defending navigation freedom in the area.

Indonesian President-elect Prabowo Subianto and French President Emmanuel Macron are slated for a critical bilateral meeting in Paris, aimed at deepening diplomatic and military relations further. This stopover comes as Indonesia actively modernizes its defense capabilities, evidenced by a recent order for 42 French Rafale jets and the installation of Thales Ground Control Interception radars across the nation.

(With inputs from agencies.)