INDIA'S AIR SUPERIORITY GAMBLE

America is gearing up to provide India with one of the most advanced fighter jets in the world, the F-35. This isn't just about selling aircraft; it's about deepening U.S.-India defence ties, reshaping military power in South Asia, and sparking reactions from neighbouring Pakistan, which fears the move could tip the regional balance.

- RUCHIRA TALAPATRA NEW DELHI

In a significant development, U.S. President Donald Trump announced plans to bolster military sales to India, including the provision of F-35 stealth fighter jets. This move has elicited concerns from Pakistan, which fears potential disruptions to the regional military balance and the undermining of strategic stability in South Asia.

PAKISTAN'S CONCERNS

Pakistan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) expressed deep apprehension regarding the proposed transfer of advanced military technologies to India. A spokesperson from MOFA stated, "Pakistan is deeply concerned over the planned transfer of advanced military technologies to India. Such steps accentuate military imbalances in the region and undermine strategic stability."

The spokesperson further urged international partners to adopt a holistic and objective perspective on South Asian peace and security issues, cautioning against endorsing positions that are one-sided and deviate from ground realities.

U.S.-INDIA DEFENCE COLLABORATION

During a joint press conference with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, President Trump highlighted the strengthening defense ties between the two nations. He remarked, "Starting this year, we will be increasing military sales to India by many billions of dollars. We are also paving the way to ultimately provide India with the F-35, Stealth fighters."

This announcement underscores the deepening strategic partnership between the U.S. and India, particularly in defense and security domains.