India-US Tariff War: India will not buy US F-35 fighter jets, decision taken amid tariff war- Report

India-US Tariff War: A new tension is being seen in the trade relations between India and America. Amid the ongoing discussions between the two countries regarding the trade deal, US President Donald Trump has announced a 25 percent tariff on products imported from India, which will come into effect from August 7, 2025. In response to this, India has also taken a big decision and refused to buy America's F-35 stealth fighter aircraft. This development can bring new complications in the strategic and trade relations between the two countries.

Why did India reject the F-35 offer?

According to a recent Bloomberg report, India has clearly informed the US that it is not interested in buying F-35 fighter aircraft. During Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to the US in February 2025, President Trump had offered to sell this aircraft to India. However, Indian officials said that the Indian government is giving priority to partnerships based on joint design and manufacturing domestically for defense equipment. This move of India is being considered an important step towards promoting indigenous defense production under the 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' initiative.

The report also said that India had considered accelerating the purchase of American products, but the possibility of purchasing additional defense equipment was ruled out. India's Defense Ministry has not yet issued any official statement on this issue.

Trump's tariff and pressure on India

US President Donald Trump has announced a 25 percent tariff on products imported from India. In addition, he has also announced punitive duties on India for purchasing military equipment from Russia. Trump said in his statement, "India has always purchased a large part of its military equipment from Russia, and Russia is the largest buyer of energy along with China. While everyone wants Russia to stop violence in Ukraine." Trump also argued that America's trade with India has been "low" because India's tariffs are too high.

The move could create a new tension in India-US trade relations, especially when the two countries are negotiating a comprehensive trade deal.

India's response: Protecting national interests

After Trump's tariff announcement, Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal said in a statement in Parliament that the government is assessing the effects of the tariffs. He asserted that India will take all necessary steps to protect and promote national interests. "The Modi government gives top priority to protecting the interests of farmers, workers, entrepreneurs, exporters, MSMEs, and all stakeholders from the industry," Goyal said in his statement in Parliament.

Way forward

This new tension in trade and defence relations between India and the US raises many questions for both countries. India's refusal to purchase F-35 aircraft and emphasis on indigenous defence production reflects its strategic autonomy. On the other hand, tariffs and punitive measures imposed by the US could further complicate trade relations between the two countries.

In the coming days, all eyes will be on the steps taken by the Indian government on this issue and the US response. Only time will tell whether this tension will affect the progress towards a new trade agreement, or both countries will be able to find a solution keeping mutual interests in mind.