PM Modi & Trump Discuss F-35 Deal: How This Fighter Jet Can Strengthen India’s Air Force

PM Modi & Trump Discuss F-35 Deal: In a major defense development, U.S. President Donald Trump has proposed selling F-35 stealth fighter jets to India, marking a potential military shift in Indo-U.S. relations. The announcement was made during a joint press conference with Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the White House, emphasizing a growing defense partnership between the two nations.

What Does the F-35 Deal Mean for India?

The U.S. plans to increase military sales to India from 2025, including F-35 fighter jets.
If accepted, India would become the first non-NATO and non-Pacific ally to add F-35s to its arsenal.
This could significantly enhance India's air superiority, strengthening its combat and surveillance capabilities.

What Makes the F-35 the World’s Most Advanced Fighter Jet?

The F-35 Lightning II is a fifth-generation stealth combat aircraft known for its:

Cutting-edge stealth technology, making it undetectable by enemy radar.
High-speed and advanced electronic warfare systems.
Superior intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance capabilities.
Multi-role functionality – excelling in both air dominance and strike missions.

Variants of the F-35 Fighter Jet

The F-35 comes in three versions, designed for different combat needs:

F-35A (CTOL - Conventional Takeoff and Landing)
F-35B (STOVL - Short Takeoff and Vertical Landing)
F-35C (Carrier-Based Variant)
F-35 Specifications
Speed: 1,976 km/h
Combat Range: 1,239 km
Altitude Capability: Up to 50,000 feet
Weapons: 25mm rotary cannon (fires 180 rounds per minute)

Why Is This Fighter Jet Critical for India?

The F-35 is unmatched in modern aerial warfare, offering:

Stealth and high-speed attack capabilities.
Advanced electronic warfare & intelligence gathering.
Interoperability with modern defense systems.
If the deal moves forward, India's air power will receive a major boost, helping counter regional threats and modernizing its military arsenal.