Pakistan set to become first foreign operator of China’s J-35 stealth fighters

LAHORE: Pakistan is set to become the first international buyer of China’s fifth-generation J-35 stealth fighter jets after reportedly signing an initial agreement for the acquisition of up to 40 aircraft.

The development was shared by senior journalist Raza Rumi on X, citing an Aviation News report detailing the proposed deal.

According to the report, the acquisition is part of a broader modernisation drive within Pakistan’s defence structure, which also includes plans for KJ-500 airborne early warning and control (AWACS) aircraft and HQ-19 air defence systems.

Sources cited in the report claim that pilot training for Pakistan Air Force personnel has already begun in China. At the same time, groundwork is reportedly underway for infrastructure upgrades and ground crew familiarisation at selected Pakistan Air Force bases, with initial deliveries expected within the coming months.

The J-35, developed by the Shenyang Aircraft Corporation, was first unveiled at the 2024 Zhuhai Airshow. It is a twin-engine stealth fighter featuring internal weapons bays and low-observable design characteristics, often compared to the US F-35 Lightning II.

Reported specifications include a length of approximately 17.3 metres, a wingspan of 11.5 metres, a maximum take-off weight of around 28,000 kg, and a top speed nearing Mach 1.8. The aircraft is designed to carry a range of internal munitions, including air-to-air, land-attack, and anti-radiation missiles.

The reported deal builds on Pakistan’s existing experience with Chinese-origin J-10C fighter jets, which are currently in service with the Pakistan Air Force and are seen by analysts as part of its evolving modern air combat capability.

The overall package is estimated to be worth several billion dollars and is expected to form part of Pakistan’s defence procurement priorities for the 2025–26 cycle.

If finalised, the induction of fifth-generation stealth aircraft alongside AWACS and advanced air defence systems would mark a significant shift in Pakistan’s air power capability and reshape regional military calculations.