American F-35s are participating for the first time in the Tarang Shakti exercises with the Indian Air Force, but the possible supply of these fighters to New Delhi faces restrictions related to the operation of Russian S-400 systems. This is reported by IDRW, citing analyst Raunak Kunde.
According to the agency, the American side has not put forward specific terms of the deal to New Delhi. The F-35's participation in the exercises allows the Indian military to get a closer look at the aircraft and its stealth technologies.
At the same time, the Indian Air Force's operation of Russian S-400s raises questions for the possible supply of F-35s related to the protection of sensitive technologies and the risk of data leakage.
When this happens, the Indian Air Force will be under pressure to acquire its own fifth-generation fighters. The only available option in such a case will be the Russian Su-57.
Earlier, IDRW reported on the tough stance of Indian Defense Minister Rajesh Kumar Singh on the issue of purchasing Su-57s. At the same time, according to the agency, the Indian Air Force maintains interest in a possible acquisition of the aircraft until the appearance of its own AMCA fighter.
In turn, the Russian side offers India broad cooperation on the Su-57, including localization of production. HAL Corporation confirmed that it has such capabilities, but additional funding will be required.