English
If reports are to be believed, there is a possibility of a India-US deal on the lines of Rafale aircraft from France. This time it will be for deadly F-35 fighter jets whi will boost the India’s defence system. The development comes after Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to United States and a meeting with President Trump.
Purchase will be in limited numbers as the cost of not only acquisition but also maintenance and operation of the aircraft is also very high. This number could be equivalent to two squadrons (36 aircraft) of French-origin Rafale fighter planes which is currently in operation in the Air Force.
This guarantees delivery and pricing on par with the US Armed Forces. However, unlike the Rafale, the F35 may require stringent end-user monitoring protocols. This could mean the US will keep a close eye on the jets to ensure that personnel from other countries, such as Russia, do not have access to them.
According to reports, a major Pentagon objection to the sale of fifth-generation jets to India in the past was the presence of Russian-origin S400 air defense systems.
American jets are designed to avoid advanced Russian air defense systems. No country in the world operates these two systems simultaneously. A major US concern is that the S400 may not be properly designed to detect and engage advanced fighters.
It is still unclear what assurances or security measures can be taken to separate the two systems. Indian Navy, which wants to acquire 26 aircraft carrier fighter aircraft. Talks with France are in advanced stage. Operates beyond the range of commonly deployed S400 systems.
India will have its own fighter plane by 2036, and F-35 is also likely to be introduced as a temporary arrangement. Currently, the AMCA jet is not expected to enter service before 2036. A deadline that is likely to be extended.
The purchase of French Rafale marine aircraft was offered as a temporary arrangement until the development of indigenous twin engine deck based fighters.
