BEIJING: Chinese defence stocks surged on Monday following confirmation that Pakistan will acquire J-35 stealth fighter jets, boosting investor confidence in the country’s growing arms exports.
Shares of AVIC Shenyang Aircraft Co., which manufactures the J-35, hit their daily 10% trading limit on the Shanghai exchange, marking a third consecutive session of gains. Aerospace Nanhu Electronic Information Technology Co. also rose by as much as 15% amid the announcement.
The rally came after Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s recent social media post confirmed Pakistan’s intent to purchase the aircraft. Pakistani pilots are already in China undergoing training, with initial deliveries expected as early as August.
The J-35A, developed by Shenyang Aircraft Corporation, is China’s second fifth-generation stealth aircraft after the Chengdu J-20. It is equipped with AESA radar, advanced avionics, electro-optical targeting systems, and a reduced radar cross-section for stealth operations.
Designed for long-range and deep-strike missions, the J-35 can carry PL-15 and PL-17 air-to-air missiles. It is powered by either Russian RD-93 or Chinese WS-19 turbofan engines and can reach speeds up to 1,367 mph.
Defence analyst Brandon J. Weichert stated that the acquisition could enhance Pakistan’s strike capabilities and shift regional air power dynamics. The aircraft is expected to replace older fleets of F-16s and Mirages, strengthening Pakistan’s ability to counter Indian air defences.
