Should India invest in F-35 jets? Key benefits and risks
The US has offered India F-35 stealth fighters, which would boost its airpower alongside nations like the US, UK, and Japan. However, the deal raises concerns over cost, ties with Russia, and its impact on India's AMCA project. As China strengthens its stealth fighter fleet and Pakistan looks to upgrade its air power, India faces a big decision—should it stick to its long-time defense partners or invest in the world's most advanced fighter jet? Here's what’s at stake.
The F-35 Lightning II is considered the world’s most advanced fighter jet and is second only to the F-22 Raptor in cost. Built by US defense company Lockheed Martin, it is a single-seat, single-engine supersonic stealth aircraft. The F-35’s cutting-edge technology allows it to operate undetected and work seamlessly with other defense systems. More than 1,000 F-35s are in service worldwide across 20 countries. There are three versions:
F-35A – Conventional takeoff for air forces
F-35B – Short takeoff and vertical landing for marines
F-35C – Carrier-based version for navies
The IAF currently operates 31 squadrons (each with 18 jets), well below the required 42. Many of its aircraft, including the aging MiG-21s, need urgent replacement. Meanwhile, production of India’s indigenous Tejas jet has been slow. The IAF has strengthened its fleet with French-made Rafales, but China has already deployed its J-20 stealth fighters near India’s borders. Pakistan is also planning to acquire 40 J-35 jets from China. With a potential two-front war scenario, India needs advanced fighters fast.
The F-35 is a battle-tested stealth fighter, smaller yet more advanced than Russia’s SU-57. Its stealth capabilities allow it to operate undetected, making it highly effective for deep-strike missions and modern warfare.
India is cautious about such a costly deal. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri recently said that negotiations haven’t started. If India does go ahead, it will have to consider the overall cost, maintenance, technology transfer, and how it affects its own AMCA fighter jet project. Some experts argue that if the US agrees to share technology, buying the F-35 could actually help India develop its own stealth jets.
India's close defense ties with Russia could complicate the F-35 deal. The US has strict rules about selling its stealth jets to countries that also use Russian technology. In 2018, India bought Russia’s S-400 missile defense system, which can detect and destroy stealth fighters. The US previously removed Turkey from the F-35 program after it purchased the S-400, fearing that Russia could learn too much about the F-35’s technology. A similar issue could arise for India.
Designed to avoid detection by radar and other tracking systems Made with special materials that absorb radar signals Feature curved surfaces and hidden weapons to reduce visibility Use non-emitting navigation systems instead of traditional radar Lack large afterburner engines that produce excess heat.
India plans to build its first prototype of the AMCA (Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft) by 2028 AMCA will be a stealth fighter capable of carrying heavy weapons Full-scale production is expected to begin by 2035.
