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17th February 2025 (16 Topics)

F-35 Joint Strike Fighter (JSF)

Context

U.S. has announced to increase military sales to India by billions of dollars, including the potential provision of F-35 stealth fighter jets.

What is the F-35?

  • The F-35 Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) is a next-generation, multi-role, single-seat fighter aircraft developed by the U.S. It comes in three variants:
    • F-35A: Conventional take-off and landing (CTOL), designed for the U.S. Air Force.
    • F-35B: Short take-off and vertical landing (STOVL), intended for the U.S. Marine Corps.
    • F-35C: Carrier-based variant for U.S. Navy and Marine Corps.
  • The F-35 is designed to operate for decades, offering advanced stealth capabilities, superior avionics, and versatility in a variety of combat scenarios.
  • It has been developed in partnership with multiple international allies and is considered the pinnacle of modern fighter technology.

India’s Ongoing Fighter Development Programs

  • ·         India is already heavily invested in several indigenous fighter programs, including the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Mk1A, the LCA Mk2, and the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA).
    • o    LCA Mk1A: The LCA Mk1A program, with 83 jets already ordered and 97 more in the pipeline, has faced delays due to developmental issues and engine supply chain problems. However, deliveries are expected to begin soon, with progress being made.
    • o    LCA Mk2: This is a larger, more capable version of the LCA, with the first prototype expected to roll out by the end of this year and the first flight scheduled for early 2026.
    • o    AMCA: The AMCA, India’s ambitious fifth-generation fighter, is expected to be ready for induction by 2034-35, offering India a future-proof, self-reliant solution for its fighter needs.
  • ·         In addition to these indigenous programs, India has issued a tender for 114 Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA), which will involve procuring foreign jets to be manufactured in India under license.

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