ISLAMABAD: Pakistan is set to become the first international customer of China’s advanced J-35 stealth fighter, with plans to acquire up to 40 aircraft in a move that would significantly enhance the Pakistan Air Force’s next-generation combat capabilities and deepen defence ties between Islamabad and Beijing.
The J-35A made its public debut at the 2024 Zhuhai Airshow and is widely regarded as China’s counterpart to the US F-35 stealth fighter.
Pakistan’s interest in the aircraft follows its positive operational experience with Chinese-made J-10 fighters, which were employed during the May 2025 conflict with India.
Pakistani officials have indicated that the J-10’s performance has strengthened confidence in Chinese military aviation technology.
The aircraft’s manufacturer, Shenyang Aircraft Corporation, has accelerated production timelines for Pakistan and extended favourable pricing terms, according to the Aviation News website.
The acquisition forms part of a broader military modernisation programme that also includes KJ-500 airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) aircraft and HQ-19 long-range air defence systems.
Experts argue that the introduction of the J-35A could intensify the strategic competition between the two nuclear-armed neighbours.
It is pertinent to mention that last year, Pakistani fighter jets shot down Indian aircraft, including Rafale, Sukhoi, and one MiG aircraft.
The military engagement is widely seen as reinforcing Islamabad’s trust in Chinese-made combat aircraft, paving the way for expanded defence and aviation cooperation between the two countries.
