PM Shehbaz Sharif’s Statement Validates Major Military Deal
Chinese defense stocks soared on Monday following confirmation that Pakistan will acquire advanced J-35 stealth fighter jets from China, according to a report by Bloomberg.
Shares of AVIC Shenyang Aircraft Co., the manufacturer of the J-35, reached the 10% daily trading limit in Shanghai, marking a third consecutive day of gains. Aerospace Nanhu Electronic Information Technology Co. also saw a sharp increase, rising by as much as 15%.
The surge in investor confidence came after Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif confirmed the purchase in a social media post last week, following weeks of speculation and unofficial reports.
Pakistani officials have also indicated that pilot training is already underway in China in preparation for the delivery of the aircraft.
J-35: A Strategic Boost to Pakistan’s Air Power
The J-35A, a fifth-generation stealth fighter developed by Shenyang Aircraft Corporation, is expected to enhance Pakistan’s aerial capabilities significantly. Defense analyst Brandon J. Weichert emphasized the jet’s ability to perform long-range and deep-strike missions while maintaining a low radar profile.
As China’s second fifth-generation fighter after the Chengdu J-20, the J-35A features cutting-edge technology, including an active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar, electro-optical targeting systems, and advanced avionics for superior situational awareness and precision targeting.
Its stealth design reduces radar visibility, and the aircraft is compatible with long-range PL-15 and PL-17 air-to-air missiles—offering a strong advantage in beyond-visual-range (BVR) engagements.
Powered by either Russian RD-93 or Chinese WS-19 turbofan engines, the J-35A can reach speeds of up to 1,367 mph. Initial deliveries to Pakistan are expected as early as August.
The new jets are set to replace Pakistan’s aging fleet of F-16s and Mirage aircraft. According to Weichert, the J-35A could give Pakistan a strategic edge by countering Indian air defenses and enabling deep-penetration strikes—potentially altering the regional balance of air power.
