India's Fighter Jet Showdown: Will Modi Choose the US F-35 or Russia's Su-57?

 India stands at a critical juncture in modernizing its air force, torn between two global superpowers—the United States and Russia. The decision to invest in the American F-35 Lightning II or the Russian Sukhoi Su-57 could reshape India's defense strategy for decades. With tensions rising in the Indo-Pacific and China's air force rapidly expanding, the stakes have never been higher.

The F-35 Lightning II: An Elite but Costly Choice

During his recent Washington visit, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi discussed defense cooperation with former US President Donald Trump. A key highlight was the potential acquisition of the F-35 Lightning II, one of the world's most advanced fifth-generation stealth fighter jets. The F-35, developed by Lockheed Martin, boasts AI-driven combat systems, unmatched stealth capabilities, and real-time data sharing. However, at approximately $80 million per unit, along with its high maintenance costs, it remains one of the most expensive jets globally.

Experts argue that while the F-35 is a game-changer in modern warfare, integrating it into the Indian Air Force (IAF) poses significant challenges. India would need extensive logistical support, training programs, and maintenance infrastructure, making the procurement process complex. Moreover, the US rarely offers full technology transfer, a key requirement under India's Make in India initiative.

Ashley J Tellis, a senior fellow at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, suggests that the F-35 offer is more symbolic than practical, driven by Washington's strategic push to counter China's influence in the region. "India may not welcome the extensive end-user monitoring that comes with US defense agreements," Tellis notes.

The Russian Su-57: A Familiar but Unproven Option

On the other side of the equation is the Sukhoi Su-57 Felon, Russia’s answer to fifth-generation stealth combat. The Su-57 is designed for air superiority and ground attack missions, boasting advanced avionics and stealth technology. India had previously partnered with Russia on a joint stealth fighter project, but disagreements over technology transfer and cost-sharing led to India's withdrawal in 2018.

Despite its strengths, the Su-57 is still in the early stages of mass deployment. Critics argue that its stealth capabilities are inferior to the F-35, and Russia's ongoing economic struggles due to the Ukraine conflict could hinder its production and future upgrades.

India’s Homegrown Fighter Jet Program: A Long-Term Priority

While the US and Russia continue their sales pitch, India's defense strategy increasingly focuses on indigenous fighter jet development. The IAF is pushing ahead with the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), developed by India's Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). With over $1 billion invested, AMCA aims to become India’s first homegrown stealth fighter, reducing reliance on foreign imports.

The IAF also plans to acquire 500+ light and medium combat aircraft, including the Tejas Mark 1A and Mark 2. Orders for 83 Tejas Mark 1A are already in place, with an additional 97 expected. Meanwhile, the Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA) program, worth $20 billion, remains a work in progress, aiming to secure 114 foreign-built fighter jets with full technology transfer.

Challenges Hindering India's Air Force Modernization

Despite ambitious plans, India's air force faces three major challenges:

1. Aging Fleet & Shortages: The IAF currently operates 31 squadrons, well below the required 42 squadrons to maintain regional air superiority. Many of these jets are Soviet-era aircraft nearing retirement.

2. Funding & Procurement Delays: India's defense budget is under pressure, and delays in Tejas production have slowed modernization efforts. The country also faced criticism over the controversial Rafale jet deal, highlighting challenges in defense acquisitions.

3. Foreign Dependency: While India aims for self-reliance, the slow pace of indigenous development forces temporary reliance on foreign-built jets like the Rafale and Sukhoi-30MKI.

Which Fighter Jet Will India Choose?

Experts believe India will likely avoid purchasing either the F-35 or the Su-57, instead prioritizing its homegrown stealth fighter program. While the US F-35 is technologically superior, the lack of technology transfer and high costs make it less appealing. Meanwhile, the Russian Su-57 lacks operational maturity, and India's past disputes with Russia over fighter jet development weaken its prospects.

A more realistic scenario is that India will continue upgrading its existing fleet with more Rafale and Tejas fighters, while aggressively pushing for AMCA’s early deployment.

FAQs About India’s Fighter Jet Decision

1. Why does India need new fighter jets?

India’s air force is aging, and with rising security threats from China and Pakistan, it requires modern fighter jets to maintain regional stability.

2. Will India buy the F-35 from the US?

While the US has offered the F-35, India is unlikely to purchase it due to its high cost, lack of technology transfer, and logistical challenges.

3. Why did India back out of the Su-57 deal with Russia?

India withdrew from the Su-57 program in 2018 due to technology transfer disputes, cost-sharing disagreements, and concerns about the aircraft’s stealth capabilities.

4. What is India’s alternative to foreign fighter jets?

India is developing the AMCA stealth fighter and expanding its fleet of Tejas Mark 1A and Mark 2 fighters.

5. How does India compare to China in air power?

Between 2014 and 2024, China added 435 new combat aircraft, while India’s fleet shrank by 151. India aims to close this gap through homegrown fighter jet production.