Reports suggest a significant potential defence deal is under discussion between China and Pakistan, potentially involving the sale of 40 advanced J-35A stealth fighter jets to Islamabad. If finalized, this acquisition would mark a major upgrade for the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) and could significantly alter regional military dynamics, positioning Pakistan as the first international operator of China’s cutting-edge J-35A. This move comes as Pakistan looks for a Pakistan New Fighter Aircraft solution to modernize its fleet.
Spotlight on the J-35A: China’s Advanced Stealth Fighter
The Shenyang J-35A represents China’s latest achievement in military aviation, being its second fifth-generation stealth fighter after the larger J-20. It is designed as a twin-engine, single-seater, supersonic aircraft capable of air superiority and multi-role missions over land and sea. The development places China alongside the United States as the only nations currently operating two distinct fifth-generation fighter designs.
China’s J-35A stealth fighter jet, a potential new fighter aircraft for Pakistan Air Force
Observers note design similarities between the J-35A and the US Lockheed Martin F-35, with the primary difference being the J-35A’s twin-engine configuration versus the F-35’s single engine. This follows a pattern where Chinese aircraft designs often draw parallels with American counterparts; the J-20 shares visual characteristics with the F-22 Raptor (except for the J-20’s canards), and the Chengdu J-10 bears resemblance to the F-16. According to China’s Global Times, the J-35A is built for operations within both stealth and counter-stealth combat scenarios, focusing on air superiority, engaging advanced enemy fighters and air defences, and intercepting various aerial threats. China intends to integrate the J-35A into its Air Force and Navy, similar to the US approach with its F-35 variants (F-35A, F-35B, F-35C).
Comparison of US F-22 Raptor (left) and China J-20 (right) stealth fighter designs
Potential Impact: A Game-Changer for Pakistan’s Air Force?
Pakistan is reportedly seeking these advanced jets to replace its aging fleet of American-made F-16s and French Mirage fighters. Acquiring the J-35A would provide the PAF with stealth technology, a significant capability leap that could impact the strategic balance in South Asia. If the deal proceeds, Pakistan would not only be the first export customer for the J-35A but potentially the only nation outside China to operate these specific aircraft.
US F-35 Lightning II jets in formation, showcasing advanced multi-role capabilities relevant to Pakistan’s potential new fighter aircraft acquisition
As cited by the South China Morning Post referencing Pakistani media, the proposed deal involves delivering all 40 jets within two years, a rapid timeline facilitated by China’s self-sufficient defence manufacturing base capable of mass production. Reports also suggest the PAF has internally approved the purchase.
Economic Hurdles and Strategic Ties
This potential multibillion-dollar acquisition comes amidst a severe economic crisis in Pakistan, which relies heavily on financial support from the IMF and World Bank. How Islamabad would finance such a significant defence expenditure remains unclear. Defence analysts speculate that China might extend further loans, adding to Pakistan’s substantial existing debt to Beijing – debt many believe Pakistan cannot realistically repay, potentially leading to future concessions involving national assets. Despite these economic pressures, China has consistently been a major military supplier to Pakistan, modernizing its army, navy, and air force. This includes the co-developed JF-17 Thunder fighter jet and the recent delivery of advanced naval frigates.
Recent Developments and Official Stances
While speculation is high, official confirmation from Beijing regarding the sale is notably absent. However, high-level interactions fuel the reports. Top Pakistan Air Force officials attended the Zhuhai air show in China in November, where the J-35A was publicly displayed, and held discussions with Chinese counterparts. Earlier in January, PAF Chief Air Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu stated that the “foundation for acquiring the J-31 stealth fighter aircraft has already been laid.” The J-31 is widely considered the basis for, or land-based version of, the J-35A. Furthermore, top Chinese General Zhang Youxia, Vice-Chairman of the Central Military Commission, visited Pakistan in November, holding closed-door talks with Pakistan’s Army Chief General Asim Munir. Pakistan’s ISPR described the meeting as focusing on mutual interests, regional security, and enhancing bilateral defence cooperation.
Broader Concerns: Security and Sovereignty
Beyond the aircraft deal, recent meetings have reportedly involved discussions around security for Chinese interests in Pakistan. According to Pakistani media sources, China has allegedly increased pressure on Islamabad to permit Chinese security firms and personnel on the ground, particularly along the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) routes through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir and Balochistan. China’s reported aim is to deploy potentially over 20,000 personnel to protect its investments and workers, despite Pakistan stating it already deploys over 30,000 of its own forces for CPEC security. Islamabad has reportedly resisted these requests, citing sovereignty concerns.
Conclusion
The potential acquisition of J-35A stealth jets represents a significant development in the China-Pakistan strategic partnership and could mark a pivotal moment for Pakistan’s air defence capabilities. While the deal promises a substantial upgrade with the introduction of a cutting-edge Pakistan New Fighter Aircraft, it is shadowed by Pakistan’s precarious economic situation and broader geopolitical implications, including regional stability and sovereignty questions related to Chinese influence. As yet, neither Beijing nor Islamabad has officially confirmed the finalization of this landmark defence agreement. Further developments are awaited to clarify the status and details of this potential sale.
