Chinese-made J-35A Stealth Fighter
China’s proposed significant agreement to provide Pakistan with advanced J-35A stealth jets has encountered an unforeseen obstacle. Beijing has requested surveillance protocols from Islamabad. The US has imposed similar protocols on Pakistan’s F-16 fleet. China’s request stems from significant concerns over espionage. This crucial mandate seeks to avert the transfer of sensitive stealth technology to American entities.
In June 2025, Indian OSINT reports indicated that Pakistan might procure 40 J-35A fifth-generation stealth fighters, along with advanced KJ-500 airborne early warning and control systems (AWACS) and sophisticated HQ-19 air defense systems.
At first, the agreement seemed advantageous, especially given reports of an appealing nearly 50% discount, which estimated the total value at around $54.6 billion. Deliveries are anticipated to commence as early as August 2025. However, China’s insistence on rigorous oversight has impeded progress.
What motivates China’s pursuit of US-style surveillance?
China’s demand for US-style surveillance arises chiefly from concerns regarding espionage. Beijing is concerned that the growing collaboration between Islamabad and Washington may lead to unintentional disclosures of sensitive military technology.
The United States currently imposes stringent End-User Agreements (EUAs) on Pakistan’s fleet of 76 F-16 fighter jets. These agreements require the deployment of US ground personnel at critical Pakistani airbases, including Mushaf and Shahbaz, to safeguard sensitive elements such as the APG-68 radar.
Consequently, China now pursues analogous measures to safeguard the stealth capabilities of the J-35A fighters. The principal issue pertains to obstructing Pakistani military officials from permitting American personnel access to these aircraft, thus inadvertently jeopardizing vital Chinese technology.
Strategic Consequences of the J-35A Procurement
The procurement of J-35A stealth fighters signifies a strategic advancement for the Pakistan Air Force (PAF). Acquiring fifth-generation fighter capabilities would temporarily provide Pakistan a significant advantage over its regional competitor, India. India’s indigenous Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) is not expected to be operational before 2030, potentially granting Pakistan a considerable advantage in aerial capabilities for several years.
Nonetheless, recent developments and analyses from reputable sources such as Air Forces Monthly suggest possible delays. Significantly, another nation, presumed to be Egypt or Algeria, may be the primary recipient of the initial J-35A exports. This priority would inevitably delay Pakistan’s expected deliveries until 2026 or later, complicating Islamabad’s immediate strategic planning.
Financial and Diplomatic Complications
Financial and diplomatic issues further complicate the stalled deal. The backlash on social media in China has underscored public dissatisfaction with the proposed substantial discounts extended to Pakistan, coupled with apprehensions regarding Islamabad’s dependability in making timely payments. These financial concerns intensify China’s reluctance, aggravating the prevailing strategic tensions between the two allies.
Notably, prior optimism regarding the agreement has significantly diminished, as indicated by a subsequently deleted social media post from a Pakistani government account and an official image disseminated by China’s Aviation Industry Corporation (AVIC). The image prominently featured a Pakistani pilot in the cockpit of a J-35A fighter, indicating that advanced pilot training was already in progress.
Anticipated Opportunities and Obstacles
Notwithstanding China’s apprehensions and rigorous security requirements, the J-35A agreement retains strategic importance for both countries. The purchase of a fifth-generation stealth fighter would be revolutionary for Pakistan, substantially enhancing its defense capabilities. Successfully exporting the J-35A could enable China to compete effectively with established Western aerospace leaders like Lockheed Martin and Boeing.
However, unless both nations can reconcile their disparities—particularly Beijing’s security apprehensions and Islamabad’s fiscal responsibilities—the agreement is likely to face indefinite postponement. Observers indicate that an extended standoff may inadvertently afford India extra time to expedite its AMCA program, thereby diminishing the strategic advantage Pakistan seeks with the J-35A.
In summary
China’s extraordinary demand for US-style oversight of Pakistan’s J35A fleet highlights the intricacies inherent in contemporary defense procurement. Effectively reconciling concerns regarding espionage, strategic priorities, and financial limitations will be essential for the successful advancement of this significant agreement.
