If things finally settle, a purchase by Pakistan of 40 advanced J-35A stealth fighter jets from China could be a game-changing deal. If a final agreement is reached, it would make Pakistan the only operator of these fifth-generation multi-role aircraft other than China. The deal would also constitute an initial export of Beijing’s most advanced military jets.
The J-35A is the second fifth-generation stealth fighter in China for air superiority and multi-mission use. The twin-engine jet, designed with a combination of air-land-sea operations in mind, is an advanced aircraft close to the U.S.-made F-35. Reports said it would be this very warplane technology that would be used to replace Pakistan’s old fleet of F-16s and Mirage jets.
According to the South China Morning Post, Pakistan’s Air Force has already approved the acquisition. If finalized, China is expected to deliver all 40 jets within two years. With its defense industry primed for mass production, Beijing does not rely on foreign components for the J-35A.
Did you know? Pakistan will be the first and only country in the world, apart from China, to possess a squadron of the stealth J-35 multi-role fighter jets.
This would dramatically strengthen Pakistan’s air defense and shift the regional power balance. But it also raises questions about Islamabad’s financial capability. Amid a deep economic crisis and reliance on IMF and World Bank bailouts, experts speculate that China may offer another loan to fund the deal. Pakistan already owes substantial debt to Beijing, which has modernized its military over the years.
Top Chinese military brass, including General Zhang Youxia, paid a visit to Pakistan for closed-door talks with Army Chief General Asim Munir. The discussions reportedly focused on regional security and ways to increase bilateral defense cooperation.
While seemingly keen, there is still sovereignty on the cards. Pressure by China to deploy security forces in Pakistan, especially along the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, has been debated. Beijing has kept mum on the deal, but its possible approval may have significant geopolitical implications.
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