Interesting analysis of the US-Russia-India arms triangle. This also occurs against the backdrop of F-35s, F-16s, and Su-57s sitting side-by-side on the ramp at AeroIndia 2025.
The US has sold a substantial amount of arms to India in recent years. But the F-35 has always been a another level of trust. Obviously the US wants India aligned against the PRC (especially when talking about possible basing) but will likely not use the F-35 to that end. As a case study, you can look back upon the failed Turkish procurement several years ago. Strong military or economic ties to Russia will likely prevent acquisition of advanced platforms.

https://www.defensenews.com/global/asia-pacific/2025/02/24/for-india-its-pick-your-fighter-as-delhi-weighs-us-russian-bids/

defensenews.com

For India, it’s ‘Pick your fighter,’ as Delhi weighs US, Russian bids

India wants to catch up quickly to China in fighter jets. But buying on the global market could torpedo the country's homegrown program.