Lockheed Martin Shifts Focus to F-21 for India, Leaving F-35A Out of the Picture

Lockheed Martin, a dominant force in the global aerospace industry, has recently shifted its focus in India’s fighter jet acquisition talks. Despite widespread speculation and the global buzz around the F-35A, the American defense giant is instead offering its F-21 fighter—a modernized, India-specific version of the F-16—as the prime candidate for India’s modernization needs. This pivot away from the F-35A comes as Lockheed Martin confirmed that it hasn’t officially proposed the stealth fighter to New Delhi, marking a significant moment in India’s defense procurement strategy.

The Early F-35 Rumors and Recent Developments

The F-35, one of the most advanced fighter jets in the world, had been the subject of rumors in India since 2018. Back then, there was speculation that India might be eyeing the F-35 to upgrade its fleet. However, the Chief of the Indian Air Force at the time, Air Marshal Birender Singh Dhanoa, quickly quashed these rumors, stating that India had no plans to pursue the F-35 at that point. The country was already focusing on its indigenous efforts, particularly the AMCA (Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft) project, designed to reduce reliance on foreign technology.

Fast forward to 2023, the arrival of two F-35s at the Aero India show in Bengaluru reignited these discussions. It was the jet’s first appearance at the show, drawing considerable attention from defense analysts and the public alike. This high-profile event led to fresh rumors, with many wondering if India might be reconsidering its stance on the F-35, especially given its shifting geopolitical landscape. Rear Admiral Michael L. Baker, a U.S. military attaché, however, confirmed that India was still in the very early stages of any discussions regarding the F-35. 

The Geopolitical Shift and India’s Western Options

India’s defense strategy has evolved dramatically in recent years, particularly as it navigates complex relations with Russia and the U.S. The ongoing Russia-Ukraine war has thrown a wrench into India's traditional reliance on Russian military hardware, raising concerns about future supplies and prompting New Delhi to consider Western alternatives more seriously. The U.S. sees this as an opportunity to deepen its military partnership with India, leading to the offer of the F-21.

Enter the F-21: Tailored for India

Lockheed Martin introduced the F-21 during Aero India in 2019, aiming to position it as a frontrunner in India’s Medium Multi-Role Combat Aircraft (MMRCA) competition, which aims to procure 114 fighter jets. The F-21 is not just another F-16; it’s a highly customized variant designed specifically to meet India’s unique needs. One of the key selling points is that the F-21 aligns perfectly with India’s ‘Make in India’ initiative, promising significant technology transfer and the establishment of a local production line in collaboration with Tata Advanced Systems.

The F-21 boasts several advanced features that set it apart from the standard F-16. It is equipped with the AN/APG-83 radar, derived from Lockheed Martin’s fifth-generation fighter jets like the F-35 and F-22. This radar brings enhanced situational awareness and targeting capabilities. The F-21 also features a state-of-the-art Ground Collision Avoidance System (GCAS) and a modernized glass cockpit that improves pilot efficiency. Another notable upgrade is the inclusion of a retractable refueling boom, a feature that extends the jet’s operational range.

On the combat front, the F-21 can carry an array of advanced air-to-air and air-to-ground missiles, including the AIM-120 AMRAAM, giving it versatile strike capabilities. Lockheed Martin’s promise of local production in India also means that thousands of jobs could be generated through this deal, strengthening both U.S. and Indian defense ties.

Why No F-35 for India—At Least for Now

While the F-35 has undeniably captured global attention with its cutting-edge stealth technology, India is currently not in the market for this fighter jet. The F-35’s integration into India’s military infrastructure would require significant adjustments, and there are concerns about its compatibility with India’s current systems. Retired Air Marshal Manmohan Bahadur, a noted expert in Indian defense, has pointed out that integrating the F-35 into the IAF might be more complex than it seems, especially given India’s existing mix of Russian, Israeli, and indigenous platforms.

Moreover, India’s focus remains firmly on developing its AMCA program, which is expected to deliver an indigenous fifth-generation fighter in the coming decade. This project aligns more closely with India’s long-term goal of achieving strategic defense autonomy, reducing dependence on foreign suppliers, and boosting its domestic defense manufacturing capabilities.

F-21’s Unique Selling Points

In contrast to the high-tech F-35, the F-21 is positioned as a practical, affordable, and immediately available solution that integrates well with India’s existing infrastructure. It offers a balance between cutting-edge technology—such as the radar systems derived from Lockheed’s fifth-gen platforms—and a cost-effective, easily maintainable platform based on the proven F-16 lineage.

Lockheed Martin’s pitch also emphasizes the potential future benefits. By adopting the F-21, India could build a closer relationship with U.S. defense contractors, potentially paving the way for future collaboration on more advanced aircraft, including the F-35, once India’s indigenous efforts have matured. In essence, the F-21 is presented not just as a fighter for today but as a stepping stone to greater defense cooperation between the two nations.