Air Chief Marshal AP Singh has stated that the United States has yet to make a formal offer to India for the sale of its F-35 stealth fighter jets, while stressing the need for the country to accelerate its indigenous fifth-generation fighter jet programme.
The Air Force chief spotlighted India’s need to keep pace with emerging aviation technology and highlighted the challenges of acquiring advanced aircraft.
“We need to analyse it carefully, what the requirements are and what comes along with it. The cost is also a part of it. It’s not like a washing machine or refrigerator for home that we can buy by just the looks of it. We have not given it a thought. No offer has been made till now,” said Air Chief Marshal Singh.
The remarks come weeks after US President Donald Trump reportedly pitched the F-35 to India during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the United States.
The move is seen as Washington’s attempt to reduce New Delhi’s reliance on Russian defence equipment.
The F-35, priced at approximately $80 million per unit, is among the most expensive fighter jets currently available.
Questions have also been raised over its performance, as noted in a recent US report.
Also read: IAF chief laments Tejas delays as China tests sixth-gen fighters
While India explores procurement options, Air Chief Marshal Singh emphasised the pressing need to bridge the technological gap, particularly in light of China’s advancements in aerial warfare.
Beijing has already showcased sixth-generation combat aircraft, while India’s Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) programme remains in development, with induction projected only by 2035.
“We may have to go in for off-the-shelf purchases with indigenous content until AMCA gets developed. Or develop AMCA at a faster pace,” he stated.
At present, the Indian Air Force operates 30 fighter squadrons against a sanctioned strength of 42, each comprising 18 aircraft.
Addressing concerns over China’s rapid military progress and the US granting funds to Pakistan for the maintenance of its F-16 fleet, Air Chief Marshal Singh asserted the importance of ensuring India remains technologically competitive.
“It will give them an advantage. It is a cat and mouse game that will keep happening. Presently, we are the ones chasing new technology. We need to reach a stage where we need to call the shots and get such technology made in India. We need to be in a situation where the world will chase us,” he said.
The Air Chief also responded to the recent controversy over a leaked video in which he was seen reprimanding Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) officials over delays in the delivery of Tejas fighter jets. Dismissing the issue, he described the exchange as a “friendly talk.”
“It is ridiculous because somebody leaking into what you are talking about privately is wrong. I was talking to my colleagues from HAL. We have trained together. It was a friendly talk with test crew and engineers whom I have worked with,” he remarked.
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