The induction of F-35s would make India a member of an elite club of countries with the state-of-the-art stealth planes in their fleets.

During the official visit of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Washington, D.C., from2–13, 2025, US President Donald Trump pledged to provide India with Lockheed Martin F-35 fifth-generation fighter jets.

The Indian Air Force primarily operates Russian aircraft like the Su-30MKI, and adding the Su-57 would extend this partnership. However, the US F-35 offer gives India a chance to diversify its defense acquisitions and adopt advanced Western technology.