Introduction
India faces a critical decision in modernizing its air force. With an ageing fleet and a growing military challenge from China and Pakistan, the country must decide whether to acquire cutting-edge American F-35s, strengthen ties with Russia through the Sukhoi Su-57, or accelerate the development of its indigenous fighter jets. The debate has intensified after both aircraft performed at Aero India 2025, the region's largest air show.
The American Option: F-35 Lightning II
Features and Advantages
The F-35 is a fifth-generation multi-role fighter jet with advanced stealth technology, AI-driven combat systems, and seamless data-sharing capabilities. As the most sophisticated jet in the skies, it offers unparalleled capabilities in aerial warfare.
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High Cost: At $80 million per unit, the F-35 is one of the most expensive fighter jets.
Operational Challenges: The jet’s availability rate is around 51% for the US Air Force.
No Co-Production: The US is unlikely to grant India rights to co-produce the F-35, conflicting with India’s 'Make in India' policy.
Geopolitical Constraints: Buying F-35s could impact India's long-standing defense ties with Russia and strain its strategic autonomy.
Expert Opinions
Ashley J Tellis, a senior fellow at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, believes the F-35 offer is more symbolic than practical, driven largely by US arms sales objectives rather than a realistic deal for India.
The Russian Contender: Sukhoi Su-57
Features and Advantages
Stealth Capabilities: The Su-57 is Russia’s response to Western stealth aircraft.
Potential for Technology Transfer: Russia may be more willing to allow co-production than the US.
Lower Cost: The Su-57 is significantly cheaper than the F-35, making it an economical option.
Challenges
India’s Past Exit: India withdrew from the Su-57 co-development program in 2018 due to disagreements over technology transfer, cost-sharing, and performance concerns.
Reliability Issues: Russia has struggled with production and operational challenges, raising questions about the Su-57's effectiveness compared to Western alternatives.
The Indigenous Path: Building India’s Own Fighters
Current Status
India's fighter jet expansion is primarily focused on developing homegrown aircraft, with plans to acquire over 500 jets, mainly light combat aircraft. Key developments include:
Tejas Mark 1A: 83 units ordered, with another 97 expected.
Tejas Mark 2: Under development, featuring improved avionics and capabilities.
Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA): India’s indigenous stealth fighter, still at least a decade away from operational deployment.
Challenges
Development Delays: India’s Defense Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has struggled with long development cycles.
Dependence on Foreign Components: The Tejas Mark 1A relies on American General Electric F-404 engines, and supply chain issues have slowed deliveries.
Funding Issues: India’s defense budget has not increased in real terms, impacting modernization plans.
The Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA) Program
India’s MRFA program aims to acquire 114 multi-role fighter jets under a $20 billion deal, requiring foreign manufacturers to build in India. Leading contenders include:
Dassault Rafale: Already in service with the Indian Air Force, giving it an advantage.
Boeing F-15EX & F/A-18 Super Hornet: US alternatives with proven capabilities.
Eurofighter Typhoon & SAAB Gripen: European options with advanced avionics.
The program has been stalled since 2019, with concerns over transparency and past procurement controversies, such as the Rafale deal.
The Bigger Picture: India’s Air Force Modernization
Comparative Fleet Growth (2014-2024)
China: Added 435 fighter and ground attack aircraft.
Pakistan: Gained 31 new jets.
India: Lost 151 fighter jets, highlighting the urgent need for replacements.
Expert Consensus
Most experts believe India will avoid purchasing either the F-35 or Su-57. Instead, it will:
Continue emergency purchases to fill immediate gaps.
Focus on co-production deals under the MRFA program.
Prioritize indigenous fighter development for long-term self-reliance.
Conclusion
For India, the future of airpower isn’t just about buying jets—it’s about building them. The country must balance immediate operational needs with its long-term ambition of becoming a defense manufacturing powerhouse. While US and Russian jets offer short-term solutions, India's true success lies in delivering its homegrown fighters on time and with cutting-edge capabilities.