Islamabad, May 13, 2025 – China has expedited the delivery of approximately 40 Shenyang J-35A fifth-generation stealth fighter jets to the Pakistan Air Force (PAF), with deliveries expected by late 2025 or early 2026, following the PAF’s reported success in downing five Indian Air Force (IAF) jets during a recent aerial clash. The downed aircraft, as claimed by Pakistani officials, include three Dassault Rafale fighters, one MiG-29, and one Sukhoi Su-30MKI, marking a significant escalation in India-Pakistan tensions.

The J-35A, a land-based variant of the FC-31 Gyrfalcon unveiled at the 2024 Zhuhai Airshow, features advanced stealth, AESA radar, and multirole capabilities. This acquisition aims to replace Pakistan’s aging F-16s and Mirage fighters, strengthening its air superiority against India. The PAF’s recent performance, particularly during the May 7, 2025, aerial battle, underscores its technological prowess. Pakistani military sources claim the PAF, using Chinese-built J-10C jets and PL-15E air-to-air missiles, shot down the Indian aircraft in a one-hour dogfight involving over 125 fighters, primarily over Kashmir and Punjab. Evidence includes wreckage of a Rafale (serial BS-001) near Bathinda and a MiG-29’s K-36DM ejection seat in Ramban, though India has only confirmed one Rafale loss.

Pakistan’s ability to effectively employ advanced Chinese systems, demonstrated in the 2019 Balakot skirmish and the recent clash, has bolstered China’s confidence in the PAF. Pakistani pilots are training in China on the J-35A, ensuring rapid integration. The accelerated delivery counters India’s growing air power, including its Rafale fleet and planned AMCA, while positioning China’s J-35A as a competitive export against Western fighters like the F-35.

Economic concerns persist, with Pakistan’s funding of the estimated $4-5 billion deal potentially reliant on Chinese loans, raising debt dependency risks. The J-35A’s untested combat performance also draws skepticism. On X, Pakistani users celebrate the PAF’s dominance, claiming it could rank among Asia’s top air forces, while Indian analysts urge New Delhi to accelerate AMCA development or acquire F-35s.

This strategic move strengthens the Sino-Pakistani alliance and signals China’s intent to challenge Western air power dominance through Pakistan’s proven capabilities. As tensions simmer, the J-35A’s arrival could reshape South Asia’s aerial balance.