In a major leap forward for Pakistan’s defense capabilities, China has reportedly accelerated the delivery of its J-35A fifth-generation stealth fighter jets to the Pakistan Air Force (PAF), with the first batch expected to arrive by the first quarter of 2026 — six months ahead of the original schedule. Moreover, China is also offering Pakistan a significant 50 percent discount on the J-35A jets, along with favorable payment terms.
J-35A Stealth Jets
The development was ratified by senior officials within the PAF, who described the fast-tracked timeline as a reflection of heightened regional tensions and Beijing’s intention to bolster Pakistan’s aerial deterrence.
“With the revised delivery schedule, Pakistan will now receive the first batch of J-35As earlier than expected, giving our air force a massive technological edge,” one official said on condition of anonymity.
Originally, the deal outlined delivery starting in late 2026, involving a total of 40 J-35A stealth fighters, making Pakistan the first known export customer of this advanced platform from China. The aircraft is being developed by Shenyang Aircraft Corporation and is glanced as a direct competitor to U.S. and Western fifth-generation jets like the F-35.
Read more: 10 most advanced Fighter Jets globally in 2025
Though neither Islamabad nor Beijing has publicly ratified the revised timeline, strong indications have emerged diplomatic and military engagements. In April 2025, PAF Chief Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmad Babar visited China and met with Chinese Defence Minister Dong Jun, reinforcing strategic ties between the two nations.
The acceleration of the deal follows a 2024 visit by General Zhang Youxia, Vice Chairman of China’s Central Military Commission, to Islamabad. Sources suggest the decision to move up the schedule was likely cemented during these high-level meetings.
As regional security concerns are on rise—especially in light of India’s modernization of its air force with Rafales and upgraded Su-30MKIs—Pakistan’s procurement of the J-35A is viewed as a bold step to narrow the qualitative gap.
“Negotiations have taken place, and we’re on track to induct the J-35A soon,” Air Chief Marshal Zaheer claimed last year.
Reports indicating that a group of PAF pilots has already started their training period in China, signaling that Pakistan is serious about integrating stealth capabilities into its air combat strategy.
This move marks China’s growing role as a global arms supplier, showcasing its fifth-generation aircraft on the international stage.