In a seismic shift that could redefine air power dynamics in South Asia, Pakistan has officially confirmed the acquisition of up to 40 Chinese J-35 fifth-generation stealth fighters. This move is poised to challenge India’s aerial supremacy, as New Delhi races to deploy its indigenous fifth-generation fighter, the AMCA, by 2035. With the J-35, also known as the “Flying Shark,” potentially entering service as early as 2026, Pakistan could gain a critical technological edge in the region.

The confirmation comes on the heels of a high-stakes visit by Pakistan’s Foreign Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar to China, where logistics and financial arrangements for the J-35 deal were reportedly finalized. Although Beijing has yet to officially announce the transfer, defense discussions within Pakistan have intensified, raising alarms in New Delhi and among global defense analysts.

The J-35, developed by Shinyong Aircraft Corporation, is engineered for stealth, boasting a low radar cross-section and advanced avionics that enhance situational awareness. Its high maneuverability and powerful engines promise air superiority in dogfights and long-range engagements. Equipped with versatile armaments, including precision-guided munitions and potentially hypersonic missiles, the J-35 represents a formidable force for multi-role combat operations.

This potential acquisition underscores the deepening military ties between China and Pakistan and signals a new phase in the regional arms race. With both nations racing to enhance their aerial capabilities, the skies over South Asia are set to become a contested battleground, not just in numbers but in technological sophistication. As tensions escalate, the implications of this deal could reverberate far beyond the region, altering the strategic landscape for years to come.