The US is open to Indian participation in its Joint Strike Fighter programme that could finally lead to the latter’s purchase of the fifth generation F-35 Lightning II stealth fighter as the decision to pursue the F-35 rests solely with India.

At a cost of about USD 10 billion for 126 aircraft, this is the largest Indian fighter tender in years which will not only help India to strengthen its combat capabilities in the coming years but position it as a rising global power worthy of respect far into the future.