India has decided not to purchase the F-35 fighter jet under pressure from the United States. In response to Trump's tariff policy, India has prioritized self-reliance.
F-35: Geopolitical equations are once again witnessing turmoil due to the US tariff policy and the pressure being exerted on India regarding arms sales. India has completely rejected US President Donald Trump's announcement of imposing a 25 percent tariff on India and the policy of pressuring it to buy the F-35 fighter aircraft. India's stance is clear—defense deals will now be based on strategic needs and technical efficiency, not diplomatic pressure.
India Gave a Restrained and Precise Response to Trump's Threats
Donald Trump has used harsh language towards India several times in recent months. He stated that if India does not buy weapons like the F-35 from the US, the US may consider providing military and economic assistance to Pakistan. This was a kind of indirect threat. However, instead of reacting to this rhetoric, the Indian government adopted a calm but effective approach—they did not even initiate any official discussions on purchasing the F-35.
Why is India Not Interested in Purchasing the F-35?
The F-35 is considered one of the most advanced stealth fighter aircraft in the world, but it is also associated with several controversies and limitations. Due to its high price, technical problems, heavy maintenance costs, and limited combat capabilities, many countries are cautious about this deal. Why should India, which is now making serious efforts to become self-reliant in the defense sector, waste money on this?
India already has Rafale aircraft purchased from France, which are equipped with state-of-the-art technology. Additionally, indigenous Tejas aircraft developed by HAL and upcoming projects like AMCA (Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft) are also enhancing India's strength. In such a situation, the need for the F-35 is not only less but also strategically unnecessary.
A Direct Message to the US from Parliament
Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal clearly articulated India's stance towards the US in Parliament. He said, "India will take every necessary step to protect its national interest. Protecting the interests of farmers, laborers, entrepreneurs, and industry is the government's top priority." Goyal's statement was a direct message to the US that India will no longer make any decisions under foreign pressure.
Clarity Even Among Political Parties
The opposition party, Congress, has also criticized the American policy. MP Shashi Tharoor said that Trump's policy is a ‘bargaining tactic’ that he wants to use to gain advantages in trade negotiations. Tharoor also criticized America's fondness for Pakistan, saying, "If America is trying to find oil in Pakistan, we wish them well." He further added, "If a trade agreement is not beneficial for India, we should not hesitate to back out. Even though America is a large market, our self-reliance is an even bigger priority."
India's New Defense Policy: Focus on Indigenous Capabilities, End to Pressure
India is now giving more importance to quality, strategic importance, and indigenous capabilities in defense deals. The government is encouraging domestic manufacturing in the defense sector under 'Make in India.' Projects like AMCA, Tejas MK-2, and various drone and missile programs are major steps in this direction. In addition, India is acquiring diverse military technologies from countries like Russia, France, and Israel, which is reducing dependence on any one country. In such a situation, the psychological strategy being created by America regarding weapon sales is now becoming irrelevant.
