The Power of F-35 Fighter Jets: Cost, Features & Impact on India’s Defence

During a meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, former US President Donald Trump announced on Thursday that the United States would significantly increase its military sales to India, amounting to billions of dollars. He also revealed that his administration was laying the groundwork to supply India with F-35 stealth fighter jets.

"Starting this year, we will be increasing military sales to India by many billions of dollars. We are also paving the way to ultimately provide India with the F-35, Stealth fighters," Trump stated.

Variants of the F-35 Fighter Jet

Developed by Lockheed Martin for the United States and its allies, the F-35 Lightning II is regarded as one of the most advanced and versatile fighter jets in the world. These jets combine advanced stealth technology, exceptional situational awareness, and networked combat capabilities. They can operate undetected even at supersonic speeds.

Here's a breakdown of their costs:

• F-35A (Standard version): $80 million
• F-35B (Short takeoff/vertical landing): $115 million
• F-35C (Carrier-based variant): $110 million
• Additionally, operating an F-35 is expensive, with each flight hour costing approximately $36,000.

Key Features of the F-35 Fighter Jet

Designed and manufactured by Lockheed Martin, the F-35 is considered one of the stealthiest fighter jets in operation today. It is powered by a single F135 engine that generates 40,000 pounds of thrust, enabling it to reach speeds of Mach 1.6 (1,200 mph).

One of its standout features is its advanced cockpit design, which eliminates traditional gauges and screens, replacing them with large touchscreens and a helmet-mounted display system. This system provides pilots with real-time data and allows them to see directly through the aircraft, thanks to the Distributed Aperture System (DAS), which utilizes six strategically placed infrared cameras.

The F-35 boasts a weapons payload capacity of 6,000 kg to 8,100 kg, enabling it to carry heavy weaponry without compromising its stealth capabilities.