Centre Clarifies: No Formal Talks on U.S. F-35 Jets in Lok Sabha

Quick Summary

• The India-U.S.joint statement following Prime Minister ModiS meeting with President Trump in February indicates a U.S.”review” of its policy on releasing fifth-generation fighter jets (like the F-35) and undersea systems to India; no formal discussions have taken place yet.
• Minister of State for External Affairs, Kirti Vardhan Singh, confirmed in Lok Sabha that there is no official proposal from the U.S.regarding F-35 fighter jets so far.
• Indian interlocutors conveyed to international diplomats, including the U.S., following escalations between India and Pakistan post-April 22’s Pahalgam attack, that India’s approach focused on non-escalatory measures.
• direct dialogue between Indian and Pakistani armed forces led to cessation of hostilities after a request by Pakistan.
• The Government reiterated India’s longstanding position opposing third-party mediation in issues with Pakistan.
• Mr.singh emphasized that India’s external partnerships are evaluated through the lens of national interest and commitment to strategic autonomy.

Indian Opinion Analysis

The absence of formal discussions regarding the sale or transfer of advanced systems like F-35s highlights cautious mutual deliberation despite warming ties under the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership framework between India and the United States. While such technology could enhance defense capabilities significantly, strategic autonomy remains a cornerstone for India’s foreign policy. Diplomatic responses to recent tensions with Pakistan further underscore this principle as direct engagement prevailed over external mediation efforts-a recurring theme in India’s security calculus.

For India, balancing strategic partnerships with long-term independence in decision-making remains vital amid complex geopolitical climates involving competing interests among democracies and regional rivalries alike.

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