Why India is not keen on the US-made F-35

IAF cites incompatibility, sovereignty concerns, and cost in shunning the American stealth fighter.

- ABHINANDAN MISHRA

Amidst renewed trade friction and rhetorical jabs by U.S. President Donald Trump, some in New Delhi see Washington's pressure tactics—ranging from tariffs to strategic arm-twisting—as partly driven by India's reluctance to consider the F-35 Lightning II stealth fighter for its air force.

Despite repeated hints from U.S. officials and behind-the-scenes lobbying by defence contractors, the Indian Air Force (IAF) has shown little interest in acquiring the fifth-generation jet. While the F-35 remains a cornerstone of NATO air dominance, senior Indian defence officials—serving and retired—say the aircraft is incompatible with India's strategic priorities, operational needs, and technological ecosystem.

"The F-35 is not just a fighter jet—it's a flying computer system embedded in the U.S. defence ecosystem. For many, that will be a huge red flag," said a retired IAF official, speaking on condition of anonymity. "It risks compromising our ability to operate independently in a full-scale conflict where technological advancements are being made every day."

One of the major sticking points, experts opined, is the aircraft's poor compatibility with India's existing fighter fleet. The IAF's inventory is dominated by Russian Su-30MKIs, MiG-29s (which are slated to be retired in the coming 5-6 years), the French Rafales and Mirages, and British Jaguars.

All of them use the 'probe-and-drogue' method for mid-air refueling. The F-35A, however, is designed for boom-type aerial refueling, necessitating a costly overhaul of India's refueling fleet or the aircraft itself.

"You simply can't refuel an F-35 with our current tankers," said a senior IAF officer formerly involved in Air Command planning. "It's a structural incompatibility and will add substantial financial burden to rectify it."