NEW DELHI – In a significant move signaling a shift in its defense strategy, India has reportedly declined an offer from the United States to purchase F-35 stealth fighter jets. The decision comes at a time of heightened trade tensions between the two nations, following US President Donald Trump’s announcement of a 25% tariff on Indian goods.
According to reports, India conveyed its lack of interest in the high-end warplanes during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the White House in February. President Trump had previously promoted the F-35 deal as a cornerstone for strengthening bilateral defense ties. However, India’s decision suggests a move away from expensive, off-the-shelf military acquisitions in favor of joint design and domestic manufacturing under the “Make in India” initiative.
The rejection of the F-35 offer is set against the backdrop of a new trade dispute. Trump’s sudden announcement of the 25% tariff, which is scheduled to take effect on August 7, reportedly took Indian officials by surprise. While the Indian government has not announced an immediate retaliatory response, it is exploring options to reduce its trade surplus with the US, including increasing imports of American natural gas, gold, and communication equipment.
Indian officials have reportedly rejected the inclusion of major military purchases like the F-35 in any trade-off discussions. The F-35, one of the world’s most advanced fighter jets, has long been a strategic offering from Washington to India, viewed as a means to counter China’s expanding military presence in Asia.
By declining the F-35 offer, India is emphasizing its commitment to defense self-reliance. The government’s “Make in India” campaign prioritizes future collaborations that involve technology transfer and domestic production to bolster India’s long-term strategic autonomy.
