Significant discussions in South Asia's strategic and defence circles have been triggered by China's alleged offer of its next-generation J-35 stealth fighter to Pakistan. If completed, this agreement could drastically change Pakistan's air power and the military balance in the region, particularly given the dynamics between India and Pakistan.
The J-35: What Is It?
China's cutting-edge twin-engine, stealth, fifth-generation fighter jet, the Shenyang J-35 (also known as the FC-31 Gyrfalcon), was created to rival the American F-35. It consists of:
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Reduced radar cross-section and stealth technology
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High-tech AESA radar
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Internal weapons storage for operations with low visibility
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Excellent thrust-to-weight ratio and agility
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Capability to operate a carrier
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Electronic warfare systems and modern avionics
As a result, the J-35 is among China's most competent fighters under development.
Why is Pakistan being offered the J-35 by China?
1. Fortifying Strategic Collaboration
From the JF-17 fighter programme to tanks and missiles, China and Pakistan have a long history of military cooperation. Beijing's objective of fortifying a vital ally against Indian influence in South Asia aligns with the J-35.
2. Increasing Defence Exports from China
China challenges the dominance of the US and Europe by entering the elite market of advanced stealth aircraft exporters by offering Pakistan a fifth-generation jet.
3. Balance to the Modernisation of India's Air Force
India is modernising with Rafales, Su-30 MKIs, and possibly future AMCA and F-35 collaboration. Giving Pakistan a stealth jet enables China to keep the strategic balance of the region in its favour.
How Does Pakistan Benefit?
1. Availability of 5th Generation Air Power
The J-35 would be Pakistan's first stealth fighter if it were purchased, bringing its air capabilities closer to those of India.
2. Replacing Older Fleets
The older F-7 and Mirage aircraft in the PAF are about to retire. One potential long-term solution is the J-35.
3. Cooperation with JF-17 Block III
Pakistan already uses the JF-17 equipped with contemporary missiles and AESA radar. These would be enhanced by the J-35, a top-tier platform.
What Is India's Reaction?
India could: If Pakistan introduces the J-35
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expedite the development of the AMCA's fifth-generation fighter.me.
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Invest more in Rafales or look into F-35 alternatives.
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Improve air defence systems such as S-400
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Promote domestic technologies such as Astra missiles, EW systems, and Uttam AESA radar.
The J-35 deal is likely to be seen as a significant development by India's strategic planners.
This Deal: Is It Confirmed?
Neither China nor Pakistan have provided an official confirmation as of yet. Reports propose:
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Delegates from Pakistan were shown the aircraft by Chinese officials.
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Pakistan has expressed a keen interest.
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Because of the cost and customisation, negotiations may take some time.
Deliveries, if agreed upon, could take years because the J-35 is still being developed and tested.
Potential South Asian Game-Changer?
There will be major ramifications if Pakistan is successful in obtaining the J-35:
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Pakistan acquires its most sophisticated fighter to date
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China strengthens its sway over South Asia
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India is under more pressure to modernise quickly.
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The competitiveness of the regional air power equation increases
The J-35 would surely increase Pakistan's air power and change strategic calculations, even though it won't decide the outcome on its own.
Final Thoughts
The offer of a J-35 fighter from China could be a game-changer for Pakistan's defence modernisation. Whether the agreement is finalised or not, it ushers in a new era in which South Asian air combat tactics will be dominated by stealth, electronic warfare, and sophisticated radar systems.
The J-35 has the potential to be a game-changer if Pakistan moves forward, upending India's air superiority and igniting a new wave of aerospace modernisation in the area.
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