New Delhi, August 1, 2025:
The Indian government clarified in Lok Sabha today that no formal discussions or procurement agreements are ongoing with the United States for F‑35 fighter jets. The statement was made in response to a parliamentary question about whether any defense deal, including the F‑35, was signed during Prime Minister Modi’s recent US visit.
The External Affairs Minister’s office confirmed that while the US had previously suggested selling F‑35 jets, India is not in active negotiations for their purchase. The government continues to prioritize its homegrown Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) program over foreign acquisitions.
Diplomacy Amid Tariff Tussles
The clarification comes as a response to rising Indo‑US trade friction, triggered by a 25% tariff on Indian goods by the US, effective August 1. Following the tariff decision, the government is reviewing its strategic and trade responses. Defense cooperation, including the possibility of acquiring the F‑35, is now uncertain.
Speculation about India purchasing F-35 jets grew earlier this year after meetings with Lockheed Martin officials. However, the government has now clearly denied any deal. They cited strategic and economic reasons for this decision.
India’s Future Aviation Roadmap
Defense Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh reiterated India’s commitment to developing its homegrown next-generation stealth jet, the AMCA, which is scheduled for roll-out by 2031 and supported by both public and private aerospace firms. This decision aligns with the government’s “Make in India” policy, which emphasizes self-reliance in critical defense sectors.
What This Means Going Forward
- India rejects F-35 procurement rumors as inaccurate and unsubstantiated.
- Strategic priority remains the AMCA project, which emphasizes building long-term local capabilities.
- The sudden increase in tariffs may affect future defense procurement talks with the US, but India intends to keep exploring balanced trade and security partnerships.
- With no formal agreement in progress and a strong focus on local development, India seems ready to forge its own way in fifth-generation fighter jet technology, undeterred by external pressures.