WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump has announced plans to sell F-35 stealth fighter jets to India, bringing the country into an exclusive group of nations with advanced stealth aircraft.

Speaking at a joint press conference with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Trump emphasized that military sales between the two countries would expand significantly in the coming months.

“This year, we will increase military sales to India by several billion dollars. We are also paving the way for India to acquire the F-35 stealth fighter jet,” Trump said on Thursday, highlighting efforts to enhance defence cooperation.

Strengthening Strategic Ties

This marks Prime Minister Modi’s first visit to the White House since Trump’s return to office. Modi expressed his appreciation for Trump’s commitment to prioritizing national interests, drawing a parallel with his own approach to governance.

“I appreciate that President Trump always puts America’s national interests first. Like him, I consider it my privilege to work with India’s best interests in mind,” Modi stated.

Modi also extended congratulations to Trump on behalf of India’s 1.4 billion citizens. “I am pleased to see you back at the White House. The people of India have given me the opportunity to serve as Prime Minister for a third term. Over the next four years, I look forward to working with President Trump once again,” he said.

Continued US-India Partnership

Reflecting on past collaborations, Modi expressed optimism about strengthening the US-India strategic partnership. “Based on my experience working with President Trump during his first term, I am confident that we will continue to advance our partnership with the same bond, mutual trust, and enthusiasm,” he added.

The announcement signals a significant boost in defence cooperation between the two nations, reinforcing India’s position as a key US ally in the Indo-Pacific region.