China and Pakistan Criticise US F-35 Offer to India

In a sharp rebuke to growing U.S.-India defence ties, China and Pakistan have strongly criticised Washington’s proposal to sell advanced F-35 stealth fighter jets to New Delhi, warning that the move could destabilise South Asia and spark a fresh arms race.

The backlash comes after former U.S. President Donald Trump floated the idea during a recent meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The deal, if finalised, would significantly enhance India’s airpower, further tilting the regional balance in its favour.

Beijing has condemned the proposal, calling it a "reckless provocation" that threatens peace in the Indo-Pacific.

Pakistan, India's long-time rival, echoed similar concerns, warning that such a deal would "force Pakistan to respond accordingly," raising fears of heightened military tensions between the nuclear-armed neighbours.

India, which is modernising its air force amid rising tensions with China along the Himalayan border, has yet to decide on the U.S. offer.

The country is also considering Russia’s Su-57 stealth fighter, as Moscow has offered a joint production deal aligning with India’s "Make in India" initiative.