News Desk
BEIJING: Reports in Chinese state-affiliated media have suggested that Pakistan could receive its first batch of fifth-generation stealth fighter jets, the Shenyang J-35, by the end of this year, in what would mark a significant step forward in the country’s long-standing defence partnership with China.
According to the reports, Pakistan Air Force Deputy Chief of Air Staff Air Vice Marshal Tariq Ghazi has indicated that an initial agreement had already been signed for the procurement of the aircraft. However, officials have not publicly detailed the size of the deal, delivery timelines, or the exact operational framework under which the jets would be integrated into Pakistan’s air combat fleet.
The potential induction of the J-35, a stealth-capable platform developed by China’s Shenyang Aircraft Corporation, has generated considerable attention in defence circles, as it would represent Pakistan’s most advanced fighter capability to date if the reports materialize. Chinese state-linked broadcasters have recently showcased operational variants of the export-oriented model of the aircraft, intensifying speculation that initial deliveries to Pakistan could begin within months rather than years.
Alongside the reported stealth fighter acquisition, the coverage also suggested that Pakistan was evaluating further expansion of its existing fleet of Chengdu J-10 multirole fighter jets, while continuing upgrades to the jointly developed JF-17 Thunder program, which remains a cornerstone of Pakistan’s indigenous aviation capability.
Neither Islamabad nor Beijing has officially confirmed a delivery schedule or publicly outlined the final terms of any agreement related to the J-35 program. Officials on both sides have maintained formal silence on the specifics, in line with long-standing practice regarding sensitive defence procurement discussions.
