In a significant move to enhance defense relations, U.S. President Donald Trump announced on Thursday that the United States will sell F-35 stealth fighter jets to India. This deal would position India among the exclusive group of nations equipped with the state-of-the-art aircraft.
During a joint news conference with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Trump stated, “Starting this year, we’ll be increasing military sales to India by many billions of dollars. We’re also paving the way to ultimately provide India with the F-35 stealth fighters.”
The F-35 Lightning II is one of the most advanced multi-role combat aircraft in the world, featuring cutting-edge stealth technology, supersonic speed, and advanced avionics. Acquiring these jets would significantly bolster India’s air defense capabilities.
Although President Trump did not provide a specific timeline or additional details regarding the sale, the announcement marks a pivotal moment in U.S.-India defense cooperation. Since 2008, India has purchased over $20 billion worth of U.S. defense products, reflecting a deepening strategic partnership between the two nations.
This potential deal is expected to not only strengthen India’s military prowess but also reinforce the ties between the world’s two largest democracies.
