Asia largest airshow Aero India opens Monday and Lockheed Martin is pitching its most advanced F-35A Lightning stealth fighter aircraft to the Indian Air Force.
This is one day after U.S Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth had his first call with India’s Defense Minister Rajnath Singh. “The leaders agreed to pursue an ambitious agenda to accelerate our operational cooperation and defense industrial and technology collaboration to deter aggression in the Indo-Pacific.” Also this week Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected in Washington DC to meet President Trump. Defense (and defense acquisitions by India) is likely to be on the agenda.
The United States’ robust participation, marking its 15th appearance at the show, is highlighted by an impressive display of military aircraft including the fifth-generation F-35 fighter, KC-135 Stratotanker aerial refueling aircraft, B-1 supersonic heavy bomber, and the F-16 fighter jet. Leading the high-level U.S. delegation is Chargé d’Affaires Jorgan Andrews from the U.S. Embassy in New Delhi, accompanied by key figures such as General Kevin Schneider, Commander of U.S. Pacific Air Forces, Brigadier General Patrick Teague, and Consul General Chris Hodges.
More than two dozen American companies are participating in the exhibition, showcasing advanced technologies in unmanned aerial systems, fighter aircraft, avionics, and defense electronics.
Last updated: December 26th, 2025
