China's J-35A Stealth Fighter Jet Could Be Exported to Pakistan: Implications for India
China Ready To Export J-35A To Pakistan? Fighter Jet In Islamabad Arsenal, Should India Be Worried?
News 18
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China is preparing to export its J-35A stealth fighter jet, with Pakistan as the likely first customer. This potential acquisition could shift the airpower balance in South Asia, raising concerns for India, which currently lacks fifth-generation stealth capabilities.
- 01China's J-35A is a fifth-generation stealth fighter designed for export.
- 02Pakistan is expected to acquire 30-40 units as part of a $12 billion deal.
- 03The J-35A could provide Pakistan with a technological edge over India.
- 04India currently lacks fifth-generation stealth fighters, relying on older models.
- 05The acquisition may compel India to accelerate its own stealth aircraft programs.
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China is on the verge of exporting its J-35A stealth fighter jet, with the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) identified as the likely first customer. The J-35A, China's second fifth-generation stealth fighter, is designed for international sales and features advanced capabilities such as a radar-evading design, a combat radius of approximately 1,200 km, and the ability to carry advanced air-to-air missiles. Reports indicate that Pakistan aims to acquire between 30 and 40 units as part of a larger $12 billion strategic deal that includes KJ-500 airborne early warning aircraft and HQ-19 missile defense systems. This acquisition would mark a significant shift in the regional airpower dynamics, potentially providing Pakistan with a technological edge over India, which currently lacks fifth-generation stealth fighters. Analysts caution that operating such advanced aircraft may be financially burdensome for Pakistan, requiring the retirement of older squadrons to maintain operational readiness. For India, the J-35A's introduction poses a dual-front threat, as both China and Pakistan would possess stealth capabilities, necessitating upgrades to India's radar networks and possibly accelerating the development of its own stealth programs, such as the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA).
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The potential acquisition of the J-35A by Pakistan could alter the airpower balance in South Asia, compelling India to enhance its defense capabilities.
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