The evolving aerial warfare landscape in South Asia is undergoing a significant shift as Pakistan prepares to induct the Chinese-origin J-35 stealth fighter into its air force. This development has sparked considerable debate and analysis, particularly in the context of India's ongoing efforts to develop its own Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA). The impending arrival of the J-35 in Pakistan and the projected timeline for the AMCA have brought the issue of a potential "stealth gap" into sharp focus.
Pakistan is expected to receive approximately 40 J-35 stealth fighter jets from China by the end of 2025. The J-35, identified as the FC-31 variant for export, is a fifth-generation aircraft boasting advanced stealth capabilities and integration features. According to reports, the version supplied to Pakistan will be equipped with an infrared search-and-track system and the ability to share targeting data with other weapon systems. Its radar cross-section is reportedly just 0.001 square meters, making it very difficult to detect by conventional radar systems. This acquisition would make Pakistan one of the few countries to operate stealth fighter technology.
India currently lacks a fifth-generation stealth fighter in its inventory. The Indian Air Force relies on platforms like the Rafale and Su-30MKI, which, while capable, do not possess the stealth characteristics of the J-35. This disparity raises concerns about India's ability to effectively counter the J-35, potentially narrowing the gap in air superiority that India has traditionally enjoyed. Experts suggest that India's existing air defense systems may struggle to detect the J-35 early enough, creating vulnerabilities in its aerial defenses.
India's answer to the stealth challenge is the AMCA, an indigenous fifth-generation stealth fighter program. While the Defence Minister approved the execution model for AMCA in May 2025, the aircraft is not expected to be combat-ready before 2035. This leaves India facing a potential decade-long period where it may lack a comparable stealth asset to counter the J-35. There are concerns about delays, technological hurdles, and budget constraints which could further postpone the AMCA project.
This situation has prompted discussions among defense analysts and strategists regarding potential strategies to mitigate the stealth gap. Some argue for accelerating the AMCA program through increased investment and technological collaboration. Others have suggested exploring interim solutions, such as acquiring or leasing stealth aircraft from other countries. However, the J-35 purchase shows chink in India's Armour.
The induction of the J-35 into the Pakistan Air Force has broader implications for regional security dynamics. It could potentially alter the balance of power, particularly in a scenario involving a dual-front conflict. The need to upgrade existing air defense systems with long-range and over-the-horizon radar capabilities is now more urgent than ever to address the detection challenges posed by stealth aircraft.
In conclusion, the acquisition of the J-35 by Pakistan has brought the "stealth gap" into sharp focus, highlighting the challenges India faces in maintaining its air superiority. While the AMCA remains India's long-term solution, the intervening period requires careful consideration of interim measures and upgrades to existing defense infrastructure to effectively address the evolving threat landscape.
