The acquisition of the US fifth-generation F-35 fighter jet could reflect the purchase of Lafale from India’s France, until Indigenous jets were developed under an advanced multi-roll fighter programme. It could be an intergovernmental agreement that will serve as a provisional solution for the Indian Air Force.
According to the ET report, similar to the Rafale agreement, F35 procurement can go through government channels to ensure equal delivery and price with the US military.
The F35 procurement debate mentioned after President Trump met Prime Minister Narendra Modi will soon begin. The US requirements to protect sophisticated onboard technology are expected to complicate negotiations.
The quantity of Indian F35 fighter jets could be limited, taking into account significant acquisitions and operating costs. The numbers could match the current Air Force deployment of two squadrons (36) of French Lafale fighter jets.
However, the F35 may require strict surveillance protocols with US surveillance to prevent personnel access from countries like Russia.
Previously, the Pentagon’s main concern regarding the sale of fifth-generation aircraft to India was the presence of the Russian S400 air defense system. US aircraft are designed to avoid advanced Russian defenses, and no country currently operates both systems. There are concerns about the S400 system being calibrated to track these advanced aircraft.
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The mechanism for maintaining separation between the two systems remains uncertain. With the Indian Navy pursuing 26 carrier-based fighter jets and French negotiations going well, it usually involves operation outside the coverage area of the deployed S400 system.
The F 35 could potentially serve as a temporary solution. Currently, the first AMCA aircraft is projected to join the service before 2036 with potential timeline extensions. The proposed acquisition of the French Lafare Marine Jets was intended as a temporary measure until Indigenous twin-engine deck-based fighter jets became operational.
Acquiring the F35 could potentially serve as a provisional solution. Currently, the first AMCA jet is not operational before 2036 and is expected to have potential delays. Similarly, procurement of French Lafare marine aircraft was proposed as a temporary measure until the development of indigenous twin engine deck-based fighters.
