New Delhi, India – The political debate over India’s next-generation fighter jet procurement has intensified, with opposition leaders slamming US President Donald Trump’s offer to sell F-35 fighter jets while Russia makes its own bid to manufacture advanced jets locally.
Trump’s F-35 Offer Sparks Controversy
Following Trump’s recent meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the US President announced that Washington will ramp up military sales to India starting in 2025. He also suggested that the fifth-generation Lockheed Martin F-35 could be part of a future arms deal.
However, India’s main opposition party, the Indian National Congress, has strongly opposed the idea, citing concerns over the aircraft’s high costs and operational expenses.
“The F-35, which Elon Musk has described as ‘junk,’ why is Narendra Modi hell-bent on buying it?” Congress questioned in a post on X (formerly Twitter).
The party also referred to Musk’s past criticisms of manned fighter jets, where he argued that drones have made them obsolete.
F-35’s Cost and Operational Challenges
The US government estimates the cost of a single F-35 at around $80 million, with additional expenses for maintenance, training, and logistics. Critics argue that these costs could strain India’s defense budget and increase long-term dependency on US military technology.
The Indian government has not officially confirmed any decision to procure the F-35. Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra clarified that the US offer is still at a “proposal stage” and that New Delhi has yet to initiate an acquisition process.
Russia’s Counteroffer: The Sukhoi Su-57
While the F-35 debate continues, Russia has stepped in with an alternative proposal—to manufacture its Su-57 fifth-generation fighter jet in India using locally sourced components.
Moscow has long been India’s most reliable defense partner, supplying critical military equipment despite geopolitical tensions and Western sanctions.
“Russia has never shied away from transferring technology,” said Amit Cowshish, former financial adviser for acquisitions at India’s defense ministry.
The proposal aligns with Modi’s “Make in India” initiative, which aims to boost domestic defense manufacturing and reduce reliance on foreign imports.
India’s Strategic Dilemma: US or Russia?
India’s Air Force is facing a critical shortage of fighter jets, with its squadron strength down to 31 from the approved 42. With China rapidly expanding its military capabilities, New Delhi is under pressure to accelerate its fighter jet acquisitions.
However, choosing between the US and Russia presents a diplomatic challenge:
🔹 Buying the F-35 could strengthen US-India ties but increase operational costs.
🔹 Opting for Russia’s Su-57 could trigger concerns in Washington, affecting broader defense cooperation.
“A major defense deal with Russia could create difficulties in our relations with the US,” Cowshish added.
What’s Next?
India’s defense ministry has yet to announce a final decision, but analysts expect a lengthy evaluation process before committing to either offer.
With rising tensions in the Indo-Pacific and India’s strategic need for air superiority, the coming months will be crucial in shaping New Delhi’s fighter jet acquisition strategy.
