The Russian S-400 "Triumf" anti-aircraft missile system has become the main obstacle that could prevent India from acquiring American fifth-generation F-35 Lightning II fighters. This conclusion was reached by the Indian publication IDRW, analyzing the prospects of a possible military-technical agreement between New Delhi and Washington.
The main problem is related to US concerns about the joint operation of the F-35 and S-400. The American side believes that Russian radar systems could potentially collect data on the characteristics of the stealth aircraft and its systems. It was due to similar disagreements that Turkey was previously excluded from the F-35 program after acquiring the S-400.
India, however, does not consider abandoning the Russian complex as a mandatory condition for acquiring new fighters. According to IDRW, the Indian military considers the S-400 an important part of the country's air defense system and is not ready to change it for the sake of a potential purchase of American equipment.
India's contract with Russia for the supply of five S-400 divisions was signed in 2018. The complex is capable of engaging aerodynamic targets at ranges up to 400 km and is designed to protect key facilities from aircraft, cruise, and ballistic missiles.
At the same time, the possible purchase of F-35 remains only a subject of discussion. India is simultaneously developing its own fifth-generation AMCA fighter and is considering various options for strengthening its combat aviation. According to IDRW, the combination of Russian air defense systems and New Delhi's requirements for operational independence may become the main limitation for a future agreement with the United States.