China gifts Pakistan 30 J-35A jets at 50% discount

In a significant move that underscores the deepening defense ties between China and Pakistan, Beijing has gifted 30 state-of-the-art J-35A stealth fighter jets to Islamabad. The jets, part of a broader military cooperation pact, are being offered at a massive 50% discount with easy payment terms, marking a new chapter in the strategic partnership between the two allies.

• China gifts 30 J-35A stealth jets to Pakistan

• Comes with a 50% discount and a flexible payment plan

• Boosts Pakistan’s air force with next-generation stealth capability

• Seen as a counterbalance to India’s Rafale and regional dominance

• Signals deeper defense cooperation and alliance strengthening

The J-35A, also referred to as FC-31 Gyrfalcon, is China’s latest fifth-generation stealth fighter jet. Designed to rival American F-35s, it combines low radar visibility, high maneuverability, and cutting-edge avionics.

• Stealth technology to evade radar detection

• Twin-engine configuration for better stability and speed

• Advanced electronic warfare systems

• Compatible with long-range air-to-air missiles

• Supports air-to-ground precision strikes

With these capabilities, the J-35A is expected to drastically enhance Pakistan's air combat readiness and position in South Asia.

According to sources close to the Ministry of Defence, the J-35A aircraft were part of a strategic gift from China, facilitated under an extended defense cooperation agreement. While the actual cost of these aircraft ranges between $70–80 million each, China is offering them at a 50% discount with a flexible, long-term payment plan.

• 30 jets gifted, some already in transit

• Payments spread over 10 years

• Pakistan to provide logistical and maintenance support contracts in return

• Joint training programs to be initiated for pilots and engineers

• Transfer of some technology and spare parts manufacturing

This deal strengthens bilateral military-industrial collaboration while giving Pakistan an edge in air warfare capabilities.

The delivery of stealth jets has geopolitical implications across South Asia and beyond. Analysts view it as a direct response to India’s Rafale acquisition from France, which significantly upgraded the Indian Air Force.

• Boosts Pakistan's deterrence capability against regional threats

• Reinforces China’s position as Pakistan’s top defense partner

• Acts as a counterweight to India’s growing ties with the West

• Enhances air quality in the region

• Signals China’s intention to militarily support allies amid rising global tensions

This is also a message to Western powers that Beijing’s defense exports are catching up to global standards.

Pakistan’s Ministry of Defence hailed the delivery as a “historic defense milestone.” A spokesperson stated:

“The induction of J-35A stealth aircraft into our air force will transform our aerial defense capability. We are grateful to our time-tested friend, China, for this strategic support.”

Meanwhile, Chinese officials reiterated their commitment to regional peace through balanced defense support:

“This cooperation fosters stability through strength and trust. We see Pakistan as a core strategic ally,” said a Chinese defense attaché in Islamabad.

With the induction of the J-35A, the PAF moves into the elite club of air forces with fifth-generation fighter jets. This positions Pakistan technologically ahead of many regional countries, including Iran and Bangladesh, and closer to the capabilities of India and Israel.

• Enhanced air superiority in potential conflicts

• Better defensive and offensive strategies in high-altitude zones like Kashmir

• Improved response time and target precision

• Boost in morale and training opportunities

• Pathway to further joint exercises and tech upgrades

India has expressed serious concerns over the development, calling it a "destabilizing move" in the region. Some Western countries have raised eyebrows over China’s military gifting strategy, fearing a new kind of “military diplomacy”.

This landmark delivery of 30 J-35A stealth fighter jets from China to Pakistan, under unprecedented discount and payment terms, marks a turning point in regional air power dynamics. It also cements the China-Pakistan military alliance, promising deeper cooperation in future defense, aviation, and technology sectors.