China Fast-Tracks Stealth Jets to Pakistan to Counter India: Report
Highlighted by Defence Security Asia, the accelerated timeline reflects deepening military ties amid rising tensions after recent cross-border violence with India. The move aims to strengthen Pakistan's aerial deterrence as it seeks to counter India's air force.
Newsweek has reached out to China and Pakistan's defense ministries for comment.
The expedited delivery of China's next-generation stealth fighters could shift the airpower balance in South Asia. India continues to modernize its air force with platforms like the Russian Su-30MKI and French Rafale jets, but neither possesses the stealth capabilities of the J-35A. This deal also marks China's first known export of a fifth-generation fighter jet, reflecting its ambitions as a global arms supplier.
Originally planned for late 2026, Pakistan is now expected to receive its first batch of J-35A fighters six months earlier, possibly by August 2025 for the initial 30 jets. This acceleration follows high-level diplomatic and military exchanges, including Pakistan Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmad Babar's visit to Beijing and General Zhang Youxia's trip to Islamabad.
Pakistan aims to close the qualitative airpower gap with India, which still fields non-stealth platforms. Pakistani media reports say the country's pilots are already training in China on the J-35A, signaling Islamabad's commitment to integrating the new stealth fighters into its fleet. Additionally, a recent post on X by an apparent Pakistan Air Force fan appears to show a J-35 in test flight, further fueling anticipation of the aircraft's imminent arrival.
The reports say China is offering Pakistan a significant 50 percent discount on the J-35A jets, along with favorable payment terms. This is widely seen as a "reward" for Pakistan's military performance during recent tensions with India and highlights the growing strategic partnership between the two countries.
Unveiled at a major airshow in November 2024, the J-35A became China's second stealth fighter after the J-20, positioning Beijing as only the second country-after the United States-to operate multiple fifth-generation stealth aircraft types.
A recent Pentagon assessment highlights China's air force as the largest in the Indo-Pacific and the third largest worldwide, boasting more than 3,150 aircraft, including roughly 2,400 combat-ready jets capable of long-range operations.
Zia Ul Haque Shamshi, Retired Air Commodore, Pakistan Air Force: "India is not expected to acquire fifth-generation fighter jet capabilities within that timeframe, which will provide Pakistan with a strategic edge."
Brendan Mulvaney, Director, China Aerospace Studies Institute, U.S. Air Force: "It has put the Pakistani Air Force ahead of the Indian Air Force by tying Pakistan and China further."
If deliveries follow this accelerated schedule, Pakistan's air combat capabilities will see a significant boost, potentially altering the regional defense landscape. Regional powers, particularly India, are expected to closely monitor pilot training, operational integration, and strategic responses in the coming months.
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