New Delhi, June 2025 – In a move that may shift the military dynamics in South Asia, China has reportedly agreed to supply its next-generation J-35 stealth fighter jets to Pakistan, raising concerns in strategic circles. The deal, still under final negotiation stages, is being closely watched by Indian defense experts and IAF veterans, given its potential impact on regional air superiority.
✈️ What is the J-35 Fighter Jet?
The Shenyang J-35 (also referred to as FC-31) is China’s fifth-generation stealth fighter developed by the state-owned AVIC (Aviation Industry Corporation of China). Designed for carrier operations, the aircraft features:
- Low radar signature
- Internal weapons bays
- Advanced avionics and sensor fusion
- Supercruise capability
- Multirole strike performance
Often compared to the American F-35, the J-35 has undergone testing for both naval and land-based roles. Although still not inducted by the PLA Navy in large numbers, China’s decision to export it to Pakistan before full-scale domestic deployment signals strategic intent.
🤝 The China–Pakistan Defense Nexus
China and Pakistan share a deep military and strategic partnership, with China being Pakistan’s largest defense supplier for decades. The JF-17 Thunder, co-developed by both countries, is a major example of this cooperation. Now, the potential sale of J-35s elevates the partnership into the fifth-generation era.
If finalized, the delivery of J-35s would:
- Enhance PAF’s air combat capabilities
- Fill Pakistan’s existing technological gap with India’s Su-30 MKIs and Rafales
- Enable stealth operations in contested border regions
Reports suggest Pakistan could initially acquire 4–6 aircraft with options to expand the fleet later.
🇮🇳 IAF Veterans React: Cautious but Confident
The development has sparked a wave of discussion among retired Indian Air Force (IAF) officers and defense analysts. While they acknowledge the symbolic and technological implications, most believe that the IAF’s overall superiority remains intact.
Air Marshal (Retd.) Anil Chopra told media:
“It’s a notable development, but technology alone doesn’t determine superiority. Training, tactics, support infrastructure, and real-world combat data matter more.”
Other IAF veterans argue that even if the J-35 possesses stealth features, its performance, maintainability, and sensor integration remain unproven in battle.
⚖️ Capability vs. Credibility
While the J-35 appears promising on paper, multiple questions persist:
- Is it truly combat-ready?
Analysts believe the jet is still in the prototype phase, with limited real-world testing. - How stealthy is it, really?
Some experts argue it lacks engine masking and material-level stealth found in U.S. fifth-gen fighters. - Can Pakistan maintain it?
Maintenance of such high-end systems requires huge logistical and technical infrastructure, something Pakistan may struggle with initially.
In contrast, the IAF operates Rafale jets equipped with Meteor missiles, Spectra EW systems, and superior sensors. India is also pursuing indigenous fifth-gen AMCA jets and acquiring more Tejas Mk-1A and Mk-2 fighters.
🛰️ Strategic Implications
Despite skepticism about the J-35’s capabilities, the symbolic impact cannot be ignored. It’s a show of strength and alliance by China and Pakistan, sending a message of deterrence to New Delhi.
From a strategic standpoint:
- China’s arms diplomacy is expanding rapidly, and Pakistan is its biggest regional client.
- India’s need to modernize the IAF faster is now more urgent.
- Regional airspace may become more contested, especially over Kashmir and Pakistan-occupied territories.
🚀 India’s Response: Modernization in Motion
India isn’t sitting idle. The IAF has accelerated several defense projects:
- Tejas Mk-2 development under HAL
- Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) project with stealth capabilities
- Purchase of additional Rafales and Su-30 upgrades
- Enhanced air defense systems like S-400s and Akash NG
Additionally, India’s deeper strategic partnerships with the U.S., France, and Israel offer access to cutting-edge tech, further offsetting China–Pakistan alignments.
📌 Conclusion: A Tactical Move, Not a Game-Changer
China’s move to supply J-35 stealth jets to Pakistan is tactically provocative and symbolically bold, but Indian defense circles remain measured in their reaction.
Yes, the J-35 may offer Pakistan a next-gen boost, but questions around its combat readiness, sustainability, and strategic value leave room for doubt. Meanwhile, India’s IAF continues to modernize, adapt, and prepare—maintaining a strong edge through experience, scale, and evolving doctrine.
So, are IAF veterans worried?
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