The US offered to supply India with the F-35 Lightning II fighter jet. The offer came at a time when the Indian Air Force (IAF) is reportedly short on fighter jets. The IAF currently has 31 fighter squadrons as against the sanctioned strength of 42. At this stage, it is just a proposal, and the formal process has not yet begun. India reportedly plans to build its first prototype of the AMCA (Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft) by 2028. India’s close defense ties with Russia could complicate the F -35 deal. By accepting theF-35, India may see a shift in longstanding defence relationships, particularly with Russia, which remains a major supplier of fighter jets to India. Also, factors such as cost, technological access, life-cycle expenses, and maintenance need to be considered, a defence insider told Times of India. The US previously removed Turkey from the F –35 programme after it purchased the S-400. It is a fifth-generation stealth fighter known for its ability to operate undetected at supersonic speeds. It comprises advanced electronic warfare systems, open architecture, sophisticated sensors, and exceptional information fusion capabilities. The F- 35 Lightning II is considered the world’s most advanced fighter jet and is second only to F-22 Raptor in cost. It has three variants, namely, the F.35A conventional take-off and landing for the Air Force, the. F-30B short take-offs/vertical landing forThe Marine Corps and the F.-35C aircraft carrier variant for the Navy and the Marine Corps.
The US offered to supply India with the F-35 Lightning II fi….
