China’s reported plan to deliver 40 Shenyang J-35 fifth-generation stealth fighter jets to Pakistan could reshape South Asia’s air power dynamics. At the same time, India’s Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) remains a decade away.
Pakistan is set to acquire 40 J-35A stealth fighters from China, marking the first export of this advanced platform, as confirmed by Pakistan’s government. The J-35, developed by Shenyang Aircraft Corporation, features low-observable stealth, advanced avionics, and multi-role capabilities, rivalling the U.S. F-35. Deliveries may begin as early as August 2025, with Pakistani pilots training in China. This move, potentially at a 50% discount, enhances Pakistan’s air superiority, especially after recent Indo-Pakistan clashes.
Pakistan is set to start receiving J-35 stealth fighters from China as early as next year, ahead of schedule.
A total of 40 jets will be delivered. It's important to note that a toned-down variant will be provided to Pakistan, but it's still a significant leap.
Pakistani… pic.twitter.com/FURjqalOkj
— Defence Core (@Defencecore) June 19, 2025The FC-31, an export variant of the J-35, is less capable than China’s frontline models but still outpaces India’s current fourth-generation fleet, including Rafale and Su-30MKI jets.
The Indian Air Force (IAF) lacks operational stealth fighters, relying on 4.5-generation aircraft. The indigenous AMCA, a twin-engine stealth fighter, is projected for induction around 2035, with prototypes expected by 2029. The Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) recently invited Indian firms to build five AMCA prototypes, aiming for self-reliance.
J-35 carrier version is flying with a pitot tube for the Victory Day parade. (the rod at the nose of the lower one.)
This could indicates that the production line at SAC is prioritizing the J-35A air force version AND the export version. The things we do to arm our allies.
This… pic.twitter.com/1t6NiNR1wJ
— Zhao DaShuai 东北进修🇨🇳 (@zhao_dashuai) June 19, 2025Former IAF chief RKS Bhadauria emphasised prioritising AMCA over imports, despite offers for U.S. F-35s and Russian Su-57s. However, Lt. Gen. HS Panag warned India’s capabilities are at 50–60% of desired levels, urging faster progress or interim fifth-generation acquisitions.
🔴#BREAKING | Pakistan to get 40 Chinese J-35 stealth jets@ShivAroor pic.twitter.com/7B8kjFqapt
— NDTV (@ndtv) June 18, 2025Read: Chinese Defense Stocks Surge as Pakistan Confirms J-35 Stealth Jet Purchase
The J-35 deal, part of a broader package including KJ-500 AWACS and HQ-19 defence systems, could give Pakistan a 7–14-year stealth advantage, per analysts. India faces pressure to accelerate AMCA development or consider foreign options, especially as China fields J-20 and J-35 jets. Recent Chinese social media backlash questions the deal’s financial wisdom, citing Pakistan’s payment history.
