Pakistan is reportedly set to receive 40 Shenyang J-35 fifth-generation stealth fighter jets from China, potentially by December 2025. This development has sparked considerable discussion among Indian Air Force (IAF) veterans and defense analysts, particularly in light of India's own fifth-generation fighter program, the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), which is not expected to be inducted until around 2035. The J-35 induction would place Pakistan among a select group of nations operating stealth technology, significantly modernizing its air force.
The Shenyang J-35 is a twin-engine, multirole combat aircraft designed for air superiority and strike missions. Developed by the Shenyang Aircraft Corporation (SAC), it evolved from the FC-31 demonstrator and incorporates stealth features such as a faceted fuselage, canted vertical stabilizers, and internal weapons bays. The J-35 has two variants: a land-based version for the People's Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) and a carrier-based version for the People's Liberation Army Naval Air Force (PLANAF). Pakistan is expected to receive the land-based J-35A variant.
IAF veterans have acknowledged the potential challenge posed by the J-35. Group Captain Ajay Ahlawat (Retd.) noted that Pakistani pilots have been training in China for over six months on the FC-31, the export variant of the J-35. While the FC-31 is considered a "toned-down" version of the J-35, any version of the aircraft in Pakistani colors raises concerns for India. The J-35's stealth capabilities, combined with advanced air-to-air missiles like the PL-15 and PL-17, could pose a significant threat to Indian assets, including AWACS, AEW&C aircraft and aerial refueling tankers.
India's response to this evolving situation is multifaceted. The IAF is upgrading its existing fleet, including the Su-30MKI fighters, with advanced radar and missiles. These upgrades aim to enhance the Su-30MKI's ability to detect and engage stealth aircraft like the J-35. India is also prioritizing the development of its integrated air defense network, incorporating over-the-horizon radar systems and advanced electronic warfare capabilities.
The Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) program represents India's long-term strategy for achieving air superiority. The AMCA is envisioned as a 25-tonne, twin-engine stealth fighter with advanced sensor fusion and internal weapons bays. While the AMCA program has faced delays, the recent approval of the program execution model signals a renewed commitment to its development. The Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) has invited Indian aerospace firms to participate in the construction of five AMCA prototypes, with the goal of completing development, testing, and certification within eight years.
Some experts suggest that the J-35 could give Pakistan a strategic advantage over India until the AMCA becomes operational, potentially around 2035. Others, however, downplay the impact of the J-35 acquisition, citing the limited number of aircraft Pakistan is likely to procure and the IAF's existing capabilities. A senior IAF official noted that the J-35 is unlikely to significantly alter the balance of firepower in the region or enable Pakistan to conduct deep strikes into Indian territory. The IAF's confidence stems from its robust air defense systems, advanced fighter fleet (including Rafale and Su-30 MKI jets), and superior training and electronic warfare capabilities.
The J-35 deal also has broader implications for regional and global power dynamics. It marks China's first known export of a fifth-generation fighter jet, positioning it as a competitor to the U.S. in the global arms market. Some reports suggest China is offering the J-35 to Pakistan at a discounted price, which has generated criticism within China. The deal could also be viewed as part of China's strategy to strengthen its relationship with Pakistan and counter India's growing influence.
