After Trump Tariff War, India Stopping Military Purchases?

It is already known that the Donald Trump administration in the United States has started to crack down on India with the imposition of the new tariff system. This has now prompted reciprocal activity from India, and here is looking into the same.

India has decided not to buy the American F-35 stealth fighter jets. The Indian government confirmed in Parliament on August 2, 2025, that no formal talks have happened with the U.S. about the F-35 deal. According to reports, India has already informed U.S. officials that it will not move forward with this offer.

One major reason is the recent decision by the U.S. to impose a 25% tariff on Indian goods, which upset India and led to a rethink of big defence deals with America. India is now focusing more on self-reliance and wants to develop its own fighter jets under the �Make in India� program. Instead of buying ready-made jets, India prefers deals where it can build planes locally and get technology transfer.

Another reason is that India�s military systems are mainly Russian-based. The American F-35 systems won�t work smoothly with them, which could cause problems in operations.

India is now working on its own advanced fighter jets like the AMCA, expected by the 2030s, and the TEDBF for its navy. Overall, India wants to reduce foreign dependence and focus on building its own defence strength while staying away from expensive foreign purchases like the F-35.