U.S. President Donald Trump has announced plans to increase military equipment sales to India, including the potential supply of fighter jets. Speaking at a joint press conference at the White House on Thursday, Trump stated that the U.S. aims to boost its revenue by several billion dollars through these sales. He also mentioned exploring the possibility of supplying F-35 stealth fighters to India.
Trump emphasized that a new trade agreement between the two countries will lead to increased imports of U.S. oil and gas by India, potentially reducing the trade deficit. Additionally, he highlighted joint efforts between Washington and New Delhi to counter the threat of radical Islamic terrorism.
The potential sale of F-35 fighter jets would mark a significant advancement in U.S.-India defense relations. However, Lockheed Martin, the manufacturer of the F-35, has not yet commented on Trump’s statement. Typically, F-35 sales occur through government-to-government agreements facilitated by the U.S. Department of Defense (Pentagon).
Since 2008, India has purchased over $20 billion worth of military equipment from the U.S. Last year, India signed a deal to buy 31 MQ-9B Sea Guardian drones, finalizing the agreement after six years of negotiation.
Liberty News’ international Correspondent states this announcement underscores the deepening defense ties between the U.S. and India, reflecting strategic cooperation in both military and economic sectors.
LND/BAIZID
