F-21 Takes The Spotlight As India Explores Its Next Big Fighter Jet Buy

Last Updated:June 04, 2025, 13:14 IST

Lockheed Martin is ready to produce the F-21 in India, tailored for India’s needs, and can be made locally with Tata Group under the Make in India initiative, boosting industries

The F-21 is Lockheed Martin's 4.5-generation fighter aircraft, an advanced version of the F-16. (Representative/AP)

The Indian Air Force (IAF) is exploring options to enhance its fighter jet fleet, with several global contenders in the fray. India is considering proposals from Russia, France, and the United States. Russia has offered its fifth-generation Sukhoi-57, while the US has pitched the F-35.

India has already procured two squadrons of Rafale fighter jets from France and has the option to purchase more. However, no deal has been finalised yet. The Rafale is a 4.5-generation aircraft and comes at a high cost. Additionally, there are limitations on India’s control over the aircraft’s technology, including potential issues with source codes and future upgrades.

While Russia has offered the fifth-generation Sukhoi-57, questions have been raised about its performance. Similarly, the American F-35, while advanced, is extremely expensive, and concerns have also been noted regarding its operational effectiveness.

F-21 Offered To India

Amid ongoing evaluations of global fighter jet options, American aerospace giant Lockheed Martin has proposed the F-21 to India as a potential solution. Known for producing the F-35, Lockheed Martin is one of the world’s leading fighter jet manufacturers, with its F-series jets in service across several countries—including the F-16s operated by Pakistan.

The F-21 is a specially designed variant based on the F-16 platform. Lockheed Martin CEO Jim Taiclet has stated that India can consider purchasing the F-21 instead of the F-35. The F-21 has been specifically designed to meet India’s defence requirements.

Difference Between F-21 and F-35

The F-21 is Lockheed Martin’s 4.5-generation fighter aircraft, an advanced version of the F-16. It is specially designed for India’s needs and can be manufactured in India in collaboration with the Tata Group under the Make in India initiative.

According to a report in The Indian Express, it features modern AESA radar, an upgraded cockpit, and an improved mission computer. The aircraft is suitable for both air-to-air and air-to-ground missions. Its price is around $100 million (approximately Rs 850 crore) per jet, though costs may rise with additional customisations based on India’s requirements.

On the other hand, the F-35 is a fifth-generation stealth jet with radar-evading capability, advanced sensors and cutting-edge data-sharing technology. According to Hindustan Times, its price ranges from $110 to $150 million per jet.

Change In US Strategy

The US was previously hesitant to offer the F-35 to tier-2 allies like India and Saudi Arabia. According to a report in The Times of India, this reluctance stemmed from concerns that its sensitive technology could potentially fall into the hands of countries like China or Russia. Additionally, there is an agreement with Israel ensuring it receives the most advanced weapons in the Middle East to maintain its military edge.

However, America’s strategy is now shifting, as stealth jets like Russia’s Su-57 and China’s J-20 are being offered to other countries.

Opportunity For India

Lockheed Martin’s CEO reportedly said that India is not fully ready for the F-35 yet, so it can opt to buy the F-21. A report in The Hindu stated that Lockheed Martin is ready to produce the F-21 in India, which will benefit Indian industries. The F-21 may be an economical option to replace the Indian Air Force’s ageing MiG-21 and MiG-27 jets.

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