The much-discussed topic of India possibly acquiring F-35 fighter jets from the United States has resurfaced in political and defense circles. While speculations gained traction after former US President Donald Trump suggested that Washington was paving the way to provide India with the advanced fifth-generation stealth aircraft, the Indian government has clarified that no formal discussions have taken place regarding such a deal. Minister of State for Defence, Kirti Vardhan Singh, addressed the matter in Parliament, stressing that India has not entered into any official dialogue with the US over acquiring the F-35s.
This clarification comes amid a complex web of defense ties, geopolitical challenges, and evolving strategic considerations. Let us break down the latest developments, historical context, and what this could mean for India’s air power.
US Trump’s Statement in February 2025
During Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s official visit to the United States earlier this year, Donald Trump had made a strong statement, claiming that Washington would “pave the way to ultimately provide India with the F-35 stealth fighters.” He further noted that military sales to India would increase by “many billions of dollars” starting in 2025.
The remarks naturally sparked speculation in global defense markets and among security analysts. The F-35, produced by Lockheed Martin, is among the most advanced multi-role fighter aircraft in the world, boasting cutting-edge stealth, situational awareness, and combat capabilities. For India, which has long sought to modernize its air fleet, Trump’s words appeared to signal a potential breakthrough.
India’s Clarification in Parliament
However, the Indian government swiftly put speculation to rest. Responding to a question raised by MP Balwant Baswant Wankhade in the Lok Sabha, Kirti Vardhan Singh stated:
“No formal discussions have been held as yet on this issue.”
He further highlighted that India and the US had indeed issued a joint statement in February 2025, where the US mentioned it would “review its policy on releasing fifth-generation fighters such as the F-35 and advanced undersea systems to India.” Yet, this statement did not translate into an official offer or negotiations.
IAF’s Position on the F-35
Even before Singh’s clarification, the Indian Air Force (IAF) had expressed caution regarding the F-35 deal. In March 2025, Air Chief Marshal AP Singh had openly stated that India was not considering the purchase of F-35s and that no formal proposal had been received from Washington.
This position reflects India’s pragmatic approach to defense procurement. While the F-35 is technologically advanced, its costs, logistical requirements, and interoperability challenges remain significant concerns for India’s long-term air strategy.
Reports of India “Not Keen”
Adding to the uncertainty, Bloomberg reported in July 2025 that India had conveyed to Washington that it was “not keen to buy the F-35 stealth fighter jets.” This came shortly after Trump announced a 25% tariff plus penalties on Indian imports, citing India’s continued purchases of oil and arms from Russia.
While there is no official confirmation of India’s reluctance, the timing of this report suggests that New Delhi is carefully weighing its strategic autonomy. India has historically diversified its defense portfolio, procuring equipment from Russia, France, Israel, and domestic industries, rather than depending on a single supplier.
What Makes the F-35 Special?
The F-35 program has three major variants:
- F-35A: Conventional takeoff and landing aircraft, primarily used by the US Air Force and allied nations.
- F-35B: Capable of short takeoff and vertical landing, enhancing deployment flexibility.
- F-35C: Carrier-based model designed for US Navy operations.
These aircraft are considered game-changers due to their stealth capabilities, advanced avionics, network-centric warfare compatibility, and ability to perform multiple roles in modern combat.
However, the program has also faced criticism over skyrocketing costs (estimated at over $1.7 trillion across its lifetime) and technical challenges in deployment. For India, which is already engaged in indigenous projects like the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), heavy investment in the F-35 may clash with its domestic defense priorities.
India’s Strategic Calculations
India’s defense decisions are rarely made in isolation; they are driven by multiple strategic factors:
- Cost vs. Benefit: With a single F-35 costing around $80–100 million, procurement at scale would strain budgets.
- Geopolitical Alignment: Deepening defense ties with the US must be balanced against India’s existing partnerships with Russia and France.
- Indigenous Programs: India is prioritizing projects like AMCA, Tejas Mk2, and the fifth-generation fighter aircraft roadmap to reduce foreign dependency.
- Operational Needs: The IAF’s immediate priority remains filling squadron gaps through proven platforms like Rafale and Su-30MKI upgrades.
- For now, India is not entering into formal talks with the US on F-35 fighter jets. Despite Trump’s remarks and speculation in defense circles, New Delhi has clarified its position clearly. Reports of India being “not keen” further align with its long-standing strategy of balancing global defense partnerships while focusing on self-reliance.
- Whether the F-35 eventually becomes part of India’s air fleet remains uncertain. What is certain, however, is that New Delhi will continue to weigh every defense decision against its strategic, financial, and operational needs before making such a monumental commitment.
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