New Delhi, October 14 – The United States refused Indian officials access to F-35 Lightning II stealth fighters during Tarang Shakti 2026 joint exercises at Jodhpur Air Base. Six US Air Force F-35s participated for the first time on Indian soil but remained guarded, with Indian Air Force personnel barred from approaching them. Air Chief Marshal AP Singh confirmed no official US offer to sell the fifth-generation fighter, underscoring limits on military technology sharing.
India’s S-400 Triumf air defense system purchase creates the main obstacle. Like Turkey, expelled from the F-35 program for the Russian system, Washington sees the platforms as incompatible. Simultaneous operation risks compromising F-35 stealth technology and classified data. Sales require the Foreign Military Sales framework, not private marketing by Lockheed Martin.
Singh noted American personnel prevented access even amid sale discussions. General Kevin Schneider said foreign sales decisions exceed his authority and follow security classification guidelines. Russia offered Su-57 Felon jets as an alternative, yet India has not decided while advancing its indigenous Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft under Make in India.
This denial during Tarang Shakti 2026 highlights challenges in US-India defense cooperation over advanced stealth fighters and air defense integrations. Security protocols protect sensitive military hardware amid ongoing geopolitical considerations.