With the acquisition of a fifth-generation stealth aircraft, Pakistan will effectively have a more technologically advanced air force. However, whether a cash-strapped Islamabad can afford to buy two different stealth fighters (the Chinese J-35 and the Turkish KAAN) remains to be seen.

Pakistan is acquiring the Chinese-made J-35A fifth-generation stealth fighter jet, marking China’s first export of a 5th-generation aircraft and a significant boost to Pakistan’s air power.
Here’s a more detailed breakdown:
- J-35A Acquisition:Pakistan is set to purchase at least 40 J-35A fifth-generation stealth fighter jets from China.
- First Export:This deal marks China’s first export of a 5th-generation aircraft, and Pakistan will be the first country outside of China to operate a squadron of the J-35A.
- Strengthening Air Power:The acquisition of the J-35A is expected to significantly enhance the Pakistan Air Force’s capabilities and modernize its fleet.
- PAF Modernization:The J-35A is part of Pakistan’s broader strategy to modernize its air force, replacing aging aircraft like F-16s and Mirage 5s with advanced fighters.
- Training:PAF pilots are already undergoing training in China to operate the J-35A, signaling its imminent inclusion in Pakistan’s fleet.
- Project Azm:Pakistan was previously known to be working on its fifth-generation aircraft under Project Azm.
- KAAN Fighter Jet:Turkey and Pakistan have announced the establishment of a joint aircraft factory to produce KAAN 5th-generation fighter jets.
- MMU (TF-X) Project:Pakistan will participate in the MMU (TF-X) project to develop and build the KAAN fighter jet.
- Pakistan May Get 40 5th-Gen Stealth Fighter Jets From China Within 2 …Dec 24, 2024 — If the deal is finalised, Pakistan will be the first and only country globally to have a squadron of the stealth J-35A…
NDTV
- After ‘Stealth’ J-35A From China, Pakistan Discusses Acquiring 5th …Jan 9, 2025 — Pakistan was previously known to be working on its fifth-generation aircraft under Project Azm. The PAF officially unve…
EurAsian Times
- India revs up deployment of 5th-gen stealth fighter jets as Pakistan too …Mar 17, 2025 — This move comes as Pakistan aims to acquire at least 40 J-35A fifth-generation stealth jets from China, which is alrea…
The Economic Times
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With the acquisition of a fifth-generation stealth aircraft, Pakistan will effectively have a more technologically advanced air force. However, whether a cash-strapped Islamabad can afford to buy two different stealth fighters (the Chinese J-35 and the Turkish KAAN) remains to be seen.Jan 9, 2025
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