India’s possible acquisition of the Lockheed Martin F-35 stealth fighter jets from the United States is making headlines. While the aircraft offers cutting-edge technology and combat superiority, the financial burden of owning and operating them could be massive. Over a 40-year lifecycle, the cost of 110 F-35s could soar as high as $100 Billion.
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The F-35 Will Cost A Lot!
The upfront cost of acquiring 110 F-35A jets is estimated at around $12.1 Billion. Each aircraft costs roughly $110 million, but this does not include weapons, customizations, or additional support infrastructure.
However, the bigger concern is the long-term expenses. The estimated lifecycle cost over four decades, covering maintenance, training, and operations, could push the total cost to between $80 billion and $100 billion.
How Does It Compare To Other Fighters In Price?
When compared to alternatives like the Rafale or the Russian Su-57, the F-35 stands out as the most expensive choice. The Rafale F4, which India has already purchased, costs about $130 million per unit, but its total 40-year lifecycle cost is projected to be significantly lower at around $48.7 billion.
The Russian Su-57, priced between $35 million and $40 million per unit, has undisclosed full lifecycle costs but is expected to be much cheaper than the F-35.
Strategic And Logistical Challenges
Beyond the cost, India faces several challenges in acquiring the F-35 fifth-generation fighter. The country’s military infrastructure is largely built around Russian equipment, and integrating American stealth fighters into the fleet could be complicated.
Additionally, the U.S. has strict regulations on technology transfer, particularly concerning countries using Russian defence systems like the S-400.
ALSO READ: F-35 vs Su-57: What Could Possibly Be India’s Fifth Generation Fighter?
Impact On India’s Own Fighter Jet Program
India is already working on its indigenous Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) program, which aims to develop a homegrown stealth fighter. Investing heavily in the F-35 could shift focus and funds away from this project, delaying India’s dream of self-reliance in defence technology.
Will India Take the Risk?
The Indian Air Force urgently needs modern fighter jets to strengthen its capabilities, especially against growing threats from China and Pakistan. While the F-35 is undoubtedly a powerful aircraft, its sky-high costs and logistical hurdles raise questions about whether it is the best choice for India’s long-term defence strategy.
