The United States intends to dramatically boost military sales to India in 2025, possibly including the provision of F-35 stealth fighter jets. Following talks between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and U.S. President Donald Trump on trade, immigration, and security matters, this announcement was made.
According to Trump, the United States is laying the groundwork for India to receive F-35 stealth fighters. Known for their technological superiority, stealth, and versatility, these jets are regarded as some of the most sophisticated in the world.
As a vital strategic partner, the United States seeks to deepen its defense relations with India. Co-producing weapons and boosting sales of military hardware are two aspects of this collaboration. On security matters, particularly “the threat of radical Islamic terrorism,” the United States also wishes to collaborate with India.
The two countries’ defense cooperation has undergone a dramatic change with the decision to pursue the sale of F-35 fighter jets to India. This action is probably going to improve India’s military prowess and fortify its defense alliance with the United States.
In light of regional security issues, the F-35, which is renowned for its cutting-edge stealth technology and adaptable operational capabilities, may be extremely important in supporting India’s air force. Additionally, by coordinating both nations’ interests in preserving Indo-Pacific stability and thwarting possible threats, this agreement represents a larger strategic partnership. All things considered, this development may have a significant impact on defense cooperation and regional security dynamics.
Vikram Misri, India’s foreign secretary, explained that no official procedure has been started and that the F-35 deal is still only a proposal. Former Indian Air Force Air Marshal Anil Chopra warned against the U.S. as a partner because of possible pressure and conflicting interests.
India is expected to spend more than $200 billion over the next ten years to modernize its military capabilities.
Instead of concentrating on outdated platforms like the F-35, some experts advise India to concentrate on emerging technologies like drones. Others think that these agreements might open up supply chain integration and maintenance opportunities for Indian companies.
To combat China’s military presence, the United States and India are strengthening their defense cooperation.
At the Aero India air show in 2023, the F-35 fighter jets made their debut in India. The F-35A Lightning-II returned to the 2025 Aero India this year.
In order to improve the co-development and co-production of maritime drones and counter-drone systems, the United States and India started the ASIA. With a focus on cutting-edge autonomous technologies, this initiative seeks to strengthen industry partnerships in the Indo-Pacific area.
As a major step in military cooperation, Trump announced plans to eventually give India F-35 stealth fighters. However, formal requests have not yet been made, and the acquisition process for these cutting-edge aircraft is still in the proposal stage.
In order to improve India’s ground combat capabilities, the U.S. intends to pursue new procurement agreements for Javelin anti-tank guided missiles.
The goal is to enhance India’s mechanized infantry capabilities by acquiring Stryker infantry combat vehicles in addition to the Javelins.
In order to improve its surveillance capabilities in the Indian Ocean Region, India is scheduled to receive six more P-8I maritime patrol aircraft.
A Reciprocal Defence Procurement (RDP) agreement, which aims to improve collaboration in defence technologies across multiple domains, including space and underwater systems, and expedite defence procurement procedures, will be negotiated.
In order to provide India with easier access to U.S. defense equipment, including maintenance and repair services, the United States has pledged to review the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR).
Under the U.S.-India COMPACT initiative, which aims to strengthen military cooperation across the air, land, sea, space, and cyberspace domains, a new ten-year defense framework was also established as a result of the discussions. It is anticipated that this framework will lead to revolutionary shifts in the two countries’ operational interoperability, technology sharing, and defense trade.
The defense cooperation between the United States and India has advanced significantly as a result of these developments, which demonstrate a shareddedication to improving military prowess and regional security.
