Pakistan to Acquire J-35 Stealth Fighter: Here’s Why It Matters

Pakistan has made a pivotal move in its defense strategy by acquiring the Chinese-made J-35 stealth fighter. The approval, confirmed by local reports from Pakistan’s 24 News HD and cited by IDRW, signals a dramatic shift in Pakistan’s air defense capabilities. With deliveries expected in the next 24 months, the J-35 is set to become a key player in Pakistan’s efforts to modernize its air force and enhance its regional security posture.

A Bold Move for the Pakistan Air Force

Pakistan’s decision to acquire the Shenyang J-35 marks a significant leap in the capabilities of its air force. Pilots from the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) are already undergoing training in China, preparing to operate the advanced fighter aircraft.

The integration of the J-35 into the PAF is set to complement existing platforms like the JF-17 Thunder and F-16 Fighting Falcon, but with a key difference: the J-35 brings fifth-generation stealth technology to Pakistan’s fleet.

The J-35 is a versatile, multi-role fighter developed by China’s Shenyang Aircraft Corporation. Derived from the FC-31 Gyrfalcon prototype, this aircraft is designed to offer superior air superiority and precision ground attack capabilities. Its stealth design, advanced avionics, and powerful payload capacity make it a formidable tool in modern aerial warfare. By introducing this cutting-edge fighter into its arsenal, Pakistan aims to strengthen its defense against regional threats, particularly from neighboring India.

Technological Advancements and Strategic Timing

The Shenyang J-35 is equipped with advanced features that make it highly effective in both air-to-air and air-to-ground missions. Its stealth design minimizes radar detection, while its AESA radar and electro-optical targeting system provide superior targeting and situational awareness.

Additionally, the aircraft is capable of carrying a diverse range of munitions, including air-to-air missiles, anti-ship weapons, and precision-guided bombs, all housed in internal weapon bays to preserve its stealth profile.

While the J-35 is a powerful fighter, it is not without limitations. Analysts suggest that the aircraft’s range and sensor integration are slightly behind that of the U.S. F-35, which remains one of the most advanced stealth fighters globally.

However, Pakistan’s acquisition of the J-35 strategically aligns with its defense needs, especially as it seeks to maintain an edge over India. This acquisition is especially timely, as India’s own fifth-generation fighter program, the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), is not expected to be operational until around 2035. The J-35 will bridge the technological gap for the next several years, giving Pakistan a critical advantage in the short term.

Shaping the Future of South Asian Air Power

The J-35 acquisition further solidifies the growing defense relationship between Pakistan and China. Over the years, China has become a key military supplier to Pakistan, with platforms such as the JF-17 and J-10C already in service with the PAF.

The addition of the J-35 highlights the deepening strategic ties between the two nations, which have been working together to counterbalance India’s military dominance in the region.

The J-35’s entry into Pakistan’s fleet will undoubtedly alter the strategic balance in South Asia. Pakistan’s air superiority will be significantly bolstered, allowing the PAF to address emerging security threats with greater effectiveness.

However, India, with its larger and more diverse fleet, will likely expedite its own modernization efforts. The race to maintain regional air superiority will only intensify as both nations continue to develop their fifth-generation fighter programs and upgrade existing fleets with more advanced technology.

The next few years will be critical in determining the impact of the J-35 on South Asia’s security dynamics. As Pakistan integrates this advanced fighter into its air force, both nations will need to adapt their strategies to maintain a balance of power in the skies. With the J-35, Pakistan is taking a significant step towards strengthening its military capabilities, but the regional security landscape remains fluid, and much will depend on how quickly both sides can innovate and adjust to new technological realities.