Beijing, June 24 - The Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC), a state-owned aerospace conglomerate, recently made headlines by sharing an image of a Pakistani Air Force (PAF) pilot in the cockpit of a J-35 stealth fighter, accompanied by a statement claiming that buyers have expressed high satisfaction with the aircraft. This development underscores the deepening military cooperation between China and Pakistan, while also highlighting AVIC’s strategic push to position the J-35 as a competitive player in the global fifth-generation fighter market. The announcement, made through official channels, has sparked significant interest in the international defense community, particularly given Pakistan’s reported intent to acquire 40 J-35 stealth fighters, marking China’s first export of this advanced platform.
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The J-35, developed by AVIC’s Shenyang Aircraft Corporation, is a twin-engine, fifth-generation stealth fighter designed for both land-based and carrier-based operations. Evolving from the earlier FC-31 prototype, the J-35 incorporates advanced stealth features, including radar-absorbent materials, internal weapon bays, and a reduced radar cross-section. Equipped with active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar, a distributed aperture system for 360-degree situational awareness, and twin WS-19 engines enabling supercruise capabilities, the J-35 is positioned as a versatile multirole fighter capable of air superiority and deep-strike missions. Its public unveiling at the 2024 Zhuhai Airshow drew attention for its sleek design and technological advancements, with AVIC emphasizing its potential to rival Western counterparts like the U.S.-made F-35.
Pakistan’s interest in the J-35 aligns with its broader strategy to modernize its air force amid regional tensions and economic constraints. The PAF has historically relied on a mix of U.S.-supplied F-16s, French Mirage fighters, and Chinese-Pakistani co-developed JF-17 Thunder jets. However, U.S. export restrictions have limited Pakistan’s access to advanced Western platforms, pushing Islamabad closer to Beijing for defense acquisitions. Reports indicate that Pakistani pilots have been training in China on the J-35 platform since mid-2024, suggesting a fast-tracked acquisition process. The deal, reportedly finalized after high-level discussions during the PAF chief’s visit to Beijing in April 2025, also includes Shaanxi KJ-500 airborne early warning aircraft and HQ-19 ballistic missile defense systems, reflecting a comprehensive upgrade to Pakistan’s air defense capabilities.
AVIC’s claim of positive buyer feedback, symbolized by the image of a PAF pilot, serves as a marketing milestone for the J-35. While the statement lacks specific performance metrics, it reinforces confidence in Chinese aviation technology, particularly following the J-10C’s reported success in recent Pakistan-India border clashes. For Pakistan, the J-35 offers a strategic edge, potentially shifting the regional airpower balance. Deliveries are expected to begin as early as August 2025, positioning Pakistan as the first international operator of China’s newest stealth fighter and cementing AVIC’s ambitions in the global defense market.