Priyanka Tiwari
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Former U.S. President and business tycoon Donald Trump has announced his intention to sell the fifth-generation F-35 stealth fighter jet to India. Given Trump’s background and his "Make America Great Again" approach, this move aligns with his tendency to push American products aggressively on the global stage.
The F-35 is one of the most advanced fighter jets in the world, and only a select few nations have access to this cutting-edge stealth technology. For any country, including India, adding such a jet to its fleet could be a game-changer. However, before moving forward, India must carefully consider both the benefits and potential challenges associated with this deal.
Why the F-35 Matters for India
With China’s increasing military assertiveness and Pakistan’s persistent threats on the western border, India needs to bolster its aerial defense capabilities. The Indian Air Force (IAF) is actively looking for next-generation fighter jets to maintain air superiority, and the F-35 could be a key asset in this mission.
Beyond the F-35, India and the U.S. are already working on several defense projects. Both nations have agreed to procure six new P-8I long-range maritime patrol aircraft this year and collaborate on the joint production of Striker Jets and Javelin anti-tank guided missiles. This deepening defense partnership signals that an F-35 deal is not out of reach.
India-U.S. Defense Ties: Strengthening Military Cooperation
India and the U.S. have significantly expanded their military cooperation in recent years. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Donald Trump, discussions have focused on increasing collaboration in key areas like space, cyber warfare, and advanced weapons systems.
One of the major highlights of the India-U.S. defense partnership is the push to enhance trade and technology exchange in the defense sector. This includes agreements dating back to 2015, which have laid the foundation for closer military ties.
F-35 Sale: What’s on the Table?
When the F-35 was first developed, the U.S. had strict rules allowing its sale only to NATO countries and key allies. That’s why America’s offer to India is significant—it indicates a shift in Washington’s policy and recognition of India as a critical strategic partner.
However, India’s Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri has clarified that at this stage, the F-35 deal is merely a "proposal," with a long and complex approval process ahead. If India moves forward, negotiations will require careful handling to ensure the best possible terms.
Is This Deal More Important for America Than India?
A major defense deal like the F-35 acquisition isn’t just about military capability—it’s also about geopolitics. Trump has openly stated that if re-elected in 2025, he will push for multi-billion-dollar military sales to India. A joint statement from both countries has even hinted at a review of U.S. policies regarding the sale of fifth-generation fighter jets and undersea defense systems to India.
However, accepting the F-35 offer would likely bring India further into the U.S. sphere of influence, which could impact its strategic autonomy. Unlike many of America’s close allies, India has traditionally pursued a diversified defense procurement strategy, sourcing jets from Russia and France. So, the question remains—why has India never purchased American fighter jets before?
Defense analysts suggest that while the F-35 offers undeniable advantages, India must consider several factors before signing a deal:
- The aircraft’s upfront cost
- The technology and weapons packages included
- The long-term maintenance and operational costs
- Potential restrictions on how India can use or modify the aircraft
Additionally, India is developing its own fifth-generation fighter, the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), for which the government has already approved a budget of ₹15,000 crore. Any decision to buy the F-35 should not undermine this indigenous project.
Are There Cheaper Alternatives?
The F-35 isn’t the only stealth fighter on the market. Both Russia and China have developed their own fifth-generation jets with similar capabilities.
- Russia’s Sukhoi Su-57: Costs between $45 million and $80 million per jet
- America’s F-35: Starts at $60 million, with top variants costing up to $110 million
This raises a key question: could India secure similar capabilities at a lower cost elsewhere?
India’s Fighter Jet Shortage: A Growing Concern
Currently, only a handful of nations operate true fifth-generation fighter jets, including the U.S. (F-35 and F-22 Raptor), China (Chengdu J-20), and Russia (Sukhoi-57). China has already deployed the J-20 along its border with India, posing a serious security challenge. To make matters worse, China is preparing to supply Pakistan with J-20s, which would tilt the regional air power balance further.
The Indian Air Force needs at least 42 fighter squadrons to maintain operational readiness, but it currently has just 30. While India’s state-owned Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) is working on producing the fourth-generation Tejas fighter, progress has been slow. Meanwhile, the AMCA is still 10-12 years away from full-scale production.
Given these constraints, some officials argue that India must acquire two to three squadrons (36-54 jets) of the F-35 as soon as possible to maintain a credible deterrent.
Final Thoughts: Should India Buy the F-35?
The decision to purchase the F-35 is not just about acquiring a cutting-edge fighter jet—it’s about geopolitics, cost, long-term strategy, and technological dependence.
If India goes ahead with the deal, it will:
Gain a world-class stealth fighter with unmatched capabilities
Strengthen its defense ties with the U.S.
Address its immediate fighter jet shortage
However, India must also consider:
The impact on its indigenous fighter jet program (AMCA)
The high cost and long-term maintenance expenses
Possible restrictions on technology transfer
With China’s military buildup and Pakistan’s growing air power, time is of the essence. Whether India moves forward with the F-35 or chooses an alternative, one thing is clear—the Indian Air Force needs new fighter jets, and it needs them soon.
