India is grappling with a major dilemma over the future of its fighter jet fleet, as it weighs options that are all problematic in different ways. The choices – America’s F-35, Russia’s Su-57, and France’s Rafale – each come with trade-offs that complicate New Delhi’s long-term air defense planning.
The U.S.-made F-35, often described as the world’s most advanced stealth fighter, is attractive for its cutting-edge technology, but its staggering cost and strict American conditions on technology transfer make it less appealing for India’s needs. Military planners worry that such dependence could restrict India’s operational autonomy.
On the other hand, Russia’s Su-57 offers stealth and maneuverability at a relatively lower price, but reliability remains a concern. India has previously walked away from co-developing the Su-57 under the Fifth Generation Fighter Aircraft (FGFA) program, citing shortcomings in stealth features and engine performance. With Russia now deeply engaged in its war in Ukraine, questions about timely delivery and maintenance add further uncertainty.
That leaves the French Rafale, already inducted into the Indian Air Force. The aircraft has proven its capability during operations and is politically safer to acquire, but experts argue that even an expanded Rafale fleet would not provide India with the stealth and next-generation features needed to counter regional threats, especially from China’s rapidly modernizing air force.
Amid these choices, India is also betting on its indigenous Tejas program and the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) project, though these will take years to mature. For now, New Delhi’s challenge is urgent: how to balance cost, technology, and strategic independence to ensure that the skies over India remain secure in an increasingly contested neighborhood.
