Pakistan Set to Receive China’s J-35A Stealth Fighter Jets

The Pakistan Air Force is set to receive its first batch of J-35A stealth fighter jets from China in the coming months, placing Pakistan among a small group of nations operating fifth-generation combat aircraft.

“The aircraft will start arriving in the coming months,” a senior Pakistani official was quoted as saying by Janes, as per SavunmaSanayiST.com, adding that PAF pilots are currently undergoing training on the J-35A in China. The official did not disclose the number of jets involved or the terms of the agreement.

Manufactured by China’s Shenyang Aviation Corporation, the J-35A is equipped with low-observable features, advanced sensors, and multi-role combat capabilities designed for high survivability and precision. These features allow the aircraft to operate without detection by enemy radar systems, offering a strategic edge in modern aerial warfare.

Pakistani defense sources say the decision to acquire the J-35A builds on the successful integration of Chinese-made J-10CE fighter jets into the PAF fleet. The J-10CE has reportedly performed well during recent tensions with India, particularly in delivering precision strikes and supporting real-time battlefield operations.

“The performance of the J-10CE has been encouraging,” said one defense source. “It reinforced confidence in Chinese aviation platforms and paved the way for this next step with the J-35A.”

Officials also noted that the induction of the J-35A aligns with Pakistan’s broader strategic objective of modernizing its air force and maintaining credible deterrence capabilities. The procurement is expected to deepen military-technical ties between China and Pakistan, particularly in advanced aerospace collaboration.

The J-35A’s entry into service is likely to impact regional air power dynamics, especially in the context of growing interest in fifth-generation aircraft across Asia. By acquiring this class of jet, Pakistan aims to enhance its operational readiness and maintain a competitive edge in air combat.

China recently announced that the J-35A will serve as a central “coordinator” in its air defense system to counter stealth threats. The jet is designed to detect, track, and help neutralize hostile low-observable aircraft and cruise missiles, while relaying targeting data to other defense systems. Chief designer Wang Yongqing said the J-35A will support “multi-domain coordination” by linking with radars and surface-to-air missiles. The J-35A is considered a more affordable stealth platform that complements the naval J-35 and the heavier J-20 already in service with the PLA Air Force.