Islamabad | July 10, 2025 – Bharat Global Time
In a stunning twist that’s sent shockwaves through Beijing’s defense circles, Pakistan has reportedly decided not to go ahead with the purchase of China’s next-generation J-35A stealth fighter jets — a deal that was once hailed as a “game-changer” in South Asia.
Multiple defense sources in Islamabad confirm that the Pakistani Air Force (PAF) has “put the deal on hold indefinitely,” citing performance doubts, integration issues, and a growing sense of strategic caution.
“The risks outweighed the benefits. We’re not convinced the J-35 is battle-ready,” a senior PAF official told Bharat Global Time on condition of anonymity.
What Is the J-35A?
The J-35A (also called FC-31) is China’s carrier-capable fifth-generation stealth fighter, often dubbed a cheaper alternative to America’s F-35. It features:
- Stealth design with twin engines
- Internal weapons bay
- AESA radar and electronic warfare suite
- Claimed supercruise capabilities
But several military analysts, including those in Pakistan, aren’t buying China’s claims — at least not yet.
Why Did Pakistan Say No?
1. Unproven Capabilities
The J-35 is still in trial phases, with limited deployment even within the Chinese PLA Navy. Pakistan’s Air Force reportedly raised red flags over reliability, stealth effectiveness, and radar jamming issues in high-threat environments.
2. Tech Compatibility
Sources say the J-35’s systems are not compatible with Pakistan’s existing fleet — including JF-17s, Mirage-IIIs, and F-16s — making integration costly and risky.
3. Financial Crunch
With economic pressure mounting, Islamabad is being forced to prioritize critical purchases. Each J-35A would cost around $100 million+ with support systems, making it one of Pakistan’s costliest acquisitions in history.
Op Sindoor’s Role?
Many defense watchers believe this decision may also reflect the psychological and tactical impact of India’s Operation Sindoor — a series of high-profile air defense drills and electronic warfare simulations launched earlier this year along the western front.
“PAF witnessed how India’s Rafales and Su-30MKIs worked in tandem with airborne jamming pods and decoys,” said a Delhi-based defense expert. “It exposed the limitations of older Chinese EW systems.”
Reports suggest Pakistan is now re-evaluating its entire air defense doctrine, especially after mock drills revealed how IAF could detect and track Chinese-origin stealth platforms using advanced AWACS and satellite integration.
China Reacts Quietly — But Nervously
Though Beijing has made no official comment, insiders in China’s AVIC (Aviation Industry Corporation of China) are said to be “deeply disappointed”, with one source calling it a “major diplomatic embarrassment.”
China was banking on the J-35 deal to:
- Strengthen its defense grip on Pakistan
- Showcase the J-35 in export markets
- Counter India’s Rafale and AMCA program
Now, the loss has cast serious doubts on China’s credibility as a stealth fighter exporter.
What Will Pakistan Do Now?
Instead of the J-35, Pakistan is said to be:
- Exploring European options quietly (possibly the Eurofighter in limited numbers)
- Pushing China to upgrade existing JF-17 Block IV variants
- Waiting to see how India’s AMCA project progresses before making a counter-move
Strategic Shift in the Skies?
This unexpected decision by Pakistan may signal a larger realignment in South Asian air power dynamics — and a potential setback for China’s military export ambitions.
For India, it’s a clear sign that its defense modernization and air superiority strategy is working — with ripple effects being felt across the region.
Bharat Global Time will continue tracking this story and its strategic implications. Stay tuned for exclusive updates, satellite analyses, and military briefings from South Asia’s evolving battlefield.
