India F-35 Deal Hits Pause: Lockheed Martin Says No Direct Talks, U.S. Door Still Open
Lockheed Martin said it is not in direct talks with India over the F-35, clarifying that any approach must go through official U.S. and Indian channels under the Foreign Military Sales process. Indian officials confirmed no formal discussions on acquiring the F-35 have begun. India recently approved a $40 billion military upgrade, including other fighter jets, while Lockheed’s F-21 remains in a separate competition.