SOURCE: AFI
At the Aero India 2025 event, US officials have clarified their stance on potential military sales to India, particularly concerning the Medium Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA) deal. According to a report by idrw.org, the United States is not currently planning to offer the F-35 Lightning II in the MRFA procurement, which also involves Transfer of Technology (ToT). Instead, the options on the table for India are the F-15EX Eagle II and the F-21, a variant of the F-16 Fighting Falcon tailored for the Indian market.
During discussions with idrw.org staff, it was elucidated that while the F-35 is not part of the initial offerings, there’s a pathway for India’s request to be considered under a Government-to-Government (G2G) deal. However, this would not guarantee the transaction. The US officials mentioned that if India formally requests the F-35, the matter would be taken up for further discussion, potentially leading to negotiations, but there is no assurance that such a deal would be finalized.
The reluctance to offer the F-35 could be influenced by various geopolitical dynamics, including concerns over technology proliferation, especially considering India’s strategic partnerships and ongoing tensions with neighboring countries like China and Pakistan. The US might be cautious about the advanced stealth and sensor technologies of the F-35 being potentially compromised.
The door left slightly ajar for a G2G deal for the F-35 suggests that while the immediate offer is limited, strategic shifts in international relations or a strong push from India could reignite discussions. This scenario keeps the possibility alive for future acquisition but underscores the complexity of defense procurements involving high-tech military assets.
The statements from Aero India 2025 paint a picture of a selective US strategy in offering fighter jets to India. While the F-15EX and F-21 are presented as viable options, the F-35 remains a coveted but elusive prize for India’s air force modernization plans. This situation highlights both the opportunities and challenges in international defense collaborations, where strategic interests, technology sharing, and geopolitical considerations intricately shape procurement outcomes.
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