Chinese J-35 stealth jets set to give Pakistan edge over India in fifth-generation tech
First overseas customer for China's J-35, deliveries could begin by end of 2026
The Pakistan Air Force (PAF) has formally confirmed a collaborative agreement with China to acquire the Shenyang J-35 stealth fighter, marking the first export customer for the fifth-generation warplane. Analysts expect an initial batch could arrive by the end of 2026, following a CCTV broadcast showing a fully operational export variant. This acquisition, combined with planned upgrades to the JF-17 fleet and additional J-10C fighters, is designed to give Pakistan a qualitative edge over India in air combat capability.
India currently fields a larger number of 4.5-generation fighters from France and Russia but lags in stealth technology. The J-35 would also enhance Pakistan's power projection into the Persian Gulf, as demonstrated by a recent squadron deployment to Saudi Arabia under a mutual defense pact. PAF Deputy Chief Air Vice-Marshal Tariq Ghazi stated that "foundations have been laid for advanced capabilities," including long-range precision weapons and next-generation platforms.
- PAF signed an initial agreement for the Shenyang J-35 stealth fighter, with deliveries expected by end of 2026
- The deal also includes upgrades to JF-17s and additional J-10C fighters
- Pakistan gains fifth-generation air power advantage over India, which relies on 4.5-gen jets
Why It Matters
Stealth fighter acquisition reshapes South Asian air power dynamics and extends Pakistan's reach into the Gulf