The US fifth-generation F-35 fighter jet acquisition could mirror India’s Rafale purchase from France, likely being an inter-governmental agreement serving as an interim solution for the Indian Air Force until indigenous jets are developed under the Advanced Multirole Combat Aircraft programme.
According to an ET report, the F35 procurement, similar to the Rafale agreement, may proceed through government channels, ensuring delivery and price parity with US forces.
Discussions for F35 procurement, which US President Trump referenced after meeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi, will commence soon. The negotiations are expected to be complicated due to American requirements for protecting sophisticated onboard technology.
The quantity of F35 fighters India might purchase could be limited, considering substantial acquisition and operational costs. The numbers might align with the current Air Force deployment of two squadrons (36 aircraft) of French Rafale fighters.
However, F35s may require strict monitoring protocols, with American oversight to prevent access by personnel from nations like Russia.
Previously, the Pentagon’s primary concern regarding selling fifth-generation aircraft to India was the presence of Russian S400 air defence systems. The US aircraft are engineered to avoid advanced Russian defences, and no nation currently operates both systems. There are concerns about S400 systems being calibrated to track these advanced aircraft.
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The mechanisms for maintaining separation between the two systems remain uncertain. The Indian Navy’s pursuit of 26 carrier-based fighter aircraft, with French negotiations progressing well, typically involves operations outside the coverage area of deployed S400 systems.
The F 35s could potentially serve as an interim solution. Currently, the initial AMCA aircraft are projected to join service no earlier than 2036, with potential timeline extensions. The proposed acquisition of French Rafale Marine jets was intended as a temporary measure until indigenous Twin Engine Deck Based Fighters become operational.
The F35 acquisition is likely to serve as an interim solution. Currently, the initial AMCA jets are not expected to be operational before 2036, with potential delays. Similarly, the French Rafale Marine aircraft procurement was proposed as a temporary measure until indigenous Twin Engine Deck Based Fighters are developed.
