40 J-35 Jets For Pak, India's 5th Gen Decade Away: IAF Veterans Weigh In

New Delhi — Pakistan is reportedly set to acquire up to 40 Chinese J-35 stealth fighter jets, marking a major leap in its air combat capabilities. The development has prompted serious concerns within Indian defence circles, especially among former Indian Air Force (IAF) officers, as India’s indigenous fifth-generation fighter program, the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), is still estimated to be a decade away from induction.

Stealth Race in South Asia

The J-35, also known as FC-31, is a twin-engine fifth-generation stealth aircraft developed by China’s Shenyang Aircraft Corporation. Equipped with radar-evading capabilities, advanced sensors, and enhanced weapons payload, the jet is being projected as Beijing’s answer to the American F-35.

While official confirmation from Islamabad remains awaited, multiple defence analysts and sources have indicated that a Pakistan-China deal involving 30 to 40 J-35 jets is in advanced stages. The aircraft could enter Pakistan’s fleet in the early 2030s.

India’s AMCA Still Years Away

In contrast, India's AMCA project, being developed by the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) in collaboration with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), is still in the design and prototype development phase. The first flight is tentatively scheduled for 2028, with serial production expected no earlier than 2035, subject to funding and technological integration.

This timeline has raised red flags among Indian defence veterans. “We are dangerously behind in the fifth-gen race,” said Air Marshal (Retd) Anil Chopra. “By the time AMCA comes, Pakistan may already field operational stealth squadrons with Chinese help.”

IAF Veterans Urge Faster Action

IAF veterans stress that India must accelerate the AMCA project and simultaneously consider acquiring or leasing interim stealth or near-stealth platforms. Some have also floated the idea of re-engaging with international partners for joint development or tech transfer to avoid falling behind regional adversaries.

“It’s not just about prestige. Air superiority determines the outcome of modern conflicts,” said Air Vice Marshal (Retd) Manmohan Bahadur. “China is actively arming Pakistan as a strategic counterweight to India. We need to rethink our timelines and budgets.”

Strategic Implications

The introduction of stealth fighters in Pakistan's fleet would narrow the qualitative edge the IAF currently enjoys. Experts warn that combined with long-range missiles and Chinese ISR (intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance) systems, these jets could challenge Indian air defences in sensitive zones like Jammu & Kashmir and the western front.

Meanwhile, IAF continues to rely on Sukhoi Su-30MKIs, Rafales, and upgraded Mirage-2000s, which, while capable, do not possess full stealth capabilities.

The Road Ahead

The Indian government has stated its commitment to developing indigenous defence technologies, and the AMCA is a key part of that vision. However, defence analysts believe fast-tracking the program and diversifying acquisition strategies will be crucial if India wants to retain its aerial dominance in the region.

As the stealth race heats up in South Asia, the coming years could redefine the balance of power in the skies.

🟢 FAQ:

Q1: What are J-35 jets and why is Pakistan acquiring them?
A1: J-35 jets are fifth-generation stealth fighters developed by China. Pakistan is reportedly acquiring 40 of them to bolster its air combat capabilities amid regional tensions.

Q2: Why is India's 5th generation fighter jet still a decade away?
A2: India's Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) project is in development and is expected to take at least 8-10 years due to technological complexity and indigenous R&D processes.

Q3: What are the concerns raised by IAF veterans?
A3: IAF veterans have raised alarms about the growing air power imbalance in the region, urging faster development and induction of advanced fighters to maintain strategic parity.

Q4: How could this impact India’s national security and air dominance?
A4: A potential induction of 40 J-35s by Pakistan could alter the aerial deterrence matrix in South Asia, requiring India to accelerate its AMCA timeline and consider interim solutions.

Published on 20 june

Publisher : SMITA

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