New Delhi: The government on Friday said India has not held any formal discussions with the United States regarding the acquisition of F-35 fighter jets.
In a written reply to the Lok Sabha, Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh clarified that despite a reference in a joint statement during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s U.S. visit—about Washington reviewing its policy on releasing F-35 jets and underwater systems to India—no official dialogue on the matter has taken place.
Responding to a question by Congress MP Balwant Baswant Wankhade on India-U.S. defense ties, Singh said diplomatic conversations with several countries, including the U.S., had taken place in the context of easing tensions between India and Pakistan. However, the decision to halt military action was taken directly between the two neighbors.
He added that the initiative to pause hostilities came from Pakistan through established military communication channels.
Regarding the US position, Singh noted that Vice President J.D. Vance was informed on May 9 that India would respond firmly if Pakistan launched a significant attack. However, the eventual de-escalation resulted from direct talks between New Delhi and Islamabad.
On whether American military assistance could compromise India’s strategic autonomy, Singh emphasized that any unresolved issues with Pakistan will be addressed solely through bilateral channels. He reiterated that this stance has been clearly communicated to all nations, including by the Prime Minister to the U.S. President.
Describing the India-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership, Singh said it is grounded in “mutual trust, shared interests, goodwill, and strong people-to-people engagement.” He added that the government evaluates all foreign partnerships—particularly in defense and security—through the lens of national interest and India’s commitment to strategic independence.
