India weighs American F‑35 jets against Russian Su‑57E offer
India has received an offer from the United States to purchase fifth-generation F-35 fighter jets, while Russia is offering the Su-57E with the possibility of local production. Moscow has dominated the Indian arms market for years, but the conflict in Ukraine has weakened its position.
India faces a critical decision regarding the modernization of its air force. For two decades, they have sourced most of their armaments from Russia, but after the invasion of Ukraine, their approach is starting to change. Two proposals are under consideration for the multi-billion-dollar contract for fifth-generation fighters:
- F-35A – the American stealth fighter, which the United States is offering to India for the first time,
- Su-57E – the Russian aircraft, which Moscow is proposing to supply along with full technology and the possibility of production in Indian factories.
India turns away from Russia
According to experts, India is increasingly distancing itself from Russian suppliers and seeking alternatives. The meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Donald Trump indicates that the American option is gaining importance. The manufacturer of the F-35, Lockheed Martin, has already expressed its readiness to cooperate.
We are encouraged by this offer from President Trump. We look forward to close cooperation with both governments in the upcoming strategic purchases, including fighter jets, he said.
Meanwhile, Russia hopes that the proposal to assemble the Su-57 at Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) will attract Indian authorities. So far, the only foreign user of this model is Algeria.
India's decision will be crucial for the future balance of power in the region and geopolitical relations between the United States, Russia, and China. The meeting between the leaders took place at 2:00 PM Eastern Time.
