The United states will send F-35 fifth-generation fighter jet and B1 bomber to the Aero India 2023 to participate in both static and flying displays.
U.S firms Lockheed and Boeing are eyeing for contracts with the Indian Air Force for its F-16 and F-15ex variant, but US sending its F-35 aircraft for the Aero India hints at the possibility that US might offer the F-35a to counter the Rafael F4 offer by France.
The F-16 never stood a chance in the MRFA tender and interestingly the Indian Air Force Chief had said in October 2022 that the Air Force is searching for a 4.5 generation or fifth generation aircraft under the MRFA tender.
United States is also sending Boeing KC 46 Pegasus military aerial refuelling aircraft to the Aero India that has been offered to India under the foreign military sale program.
Aero India is a biennial air show and aviation exhibition held in Bengaluru, India at the Yelahanka Air Force Station. It is organised by the Defence Exhibition Organisation, Ministry of Defence.
The Aero India 2023 will take place from 13 February to 17 February.