Recent swirling media speculation about Pakistan’s imminent acquisition of China’s J-35A fifth-generation stealth fighter jets has been firmly rebuffed by Islamabad. Pakistan’s Defense Minister, Khawaja Asif, publicly denied the claims in a televised interview, dismissing them as mere “Chinese defense sales” promotions rather than concrete negotiations.
The rumors, which surfaced from unverified reports, suggested that Pakistan was on the verge of purchasing 40 J-35A aircraft at a discounted rate, with initial deliveries potentially commencing as early as August 2025. These reports also claimed the jets would come equipped with advanced PL-17 long-range air-to-air missiles, significantly boosting the Pakistan Air Force’s (PAF) capabilities. However, Asif’s direct denial casts considerable doubt on the veracity of such assertions.
The J-35A, developed by China’s Shenyang Aircraft Corporation, is being marketed internationally as a more cost-effective alternative to Western stealth fighter aircraft. While Pakistan has historically been a significant customer for Chinese defense systems, a formal agreement for such a high-profile stealth aircraft would mark a substantial upgrade in its air force’s technological prowess and strategic posture.
As of late June 2025, neither China’s Ministry of National Defense nor any state-affiliated defense firms have offered comments on the alleged deal, further underscoring the lack of official confirmation. This silence from the Chinese side, coupled with Pakistan’s explicit denial, indicates that no formal agreement for the stealth aircraft has yet been reached between the two long-standing defense partners.
The episode highlights the sensitive nature of defense procurements, particularly for advanced military hardware like fifth-generation fighters. For Pakistan, a potential J-35 acquisition would represent a strategic leap in its air defense capabilities amidst regional dynamics. However, for now, any such deal remains firmly in the realm of speculation, as confirmed by Islamabad’s top defense official.