China Accelerates Delivery of Stealth Jets to Pakistan: Implications for India
China's Stealth Jet Deal with Pakistan
In a concerning turn of events for India, China is expediting the transfer of its advanced fifth-generation stealth aircraft, the J-35A, to Pakistan. Reports indicate that the initial batch of 30 jets is slated for delivery by August 2025. This military collaboration includes a substantial 50% discount on the jets, along with favorable payment conditions for Pakistan.
This discount is reportedly a reward for Pakistan's effective air defense capabilities against India, especially following recent hostilities between the two nations.
Future Acquisitions and Military Cooperation
By late 2025, Pakistan may acquire an additional 40 J-35A jets, marking China's first export of such sophisticated military technology. Initially, these jets were expected to arrive in late 2026. Since the ceasefire agreement between India and Pakistan, there have been numerous high-level discussions between Chinese and Pakistani officials.
Currently, Pakistan's Foreign Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar is visiting China, where he has reportedly finalized the logistics and financing for the J-35 deal. Additionally, a group of Pakistani pilots has been dispatched to the People’s Liberation Army Air Force in Beijing for training on the J-35A.
Understanding Stealth Technology
Stealth technology is designed to minimize the detection range of aircraft by radar, sonar, and infrared systems. Often referred to as Low Observable (LO) technology, it is crucial for modern combat aircraft, which are increasingly vulnerable to radar detection. The primary advantage of stealth technology is its ability to evade radar.
Stealth jets manage their thermal emissions and maintain specific altitudes to avoid radar detection, making them essential for contemporary defense strategies.
Challenges for India
The introduction of stealth jets into Pakistan's arsenal presents a significant challenge for India, which currently lacks such advanced aircraft. While India is modernizing its air force with platforms like the Russian Su-30MKI and French Rafale jets, these do not match the capabilities of the J-35A.
India is in the process of developing its own fifth-generation stealth fighter, the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), but it is not expected to be operational until around 2035, as confirmed by the chairman of the Defence Research and Development Organisation.
India's Options Moving Forward
The escalating tensions between India and Pakistan underscore the urgency for India to secure stealth aircraft. During Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent visit to the United States, President Trump proposed the sale of advanced F-35 stealth jets to India. Meanwhile, Russia has also offered its Sukhoi Su-57 stealth aircraft.
The procurement process for these jets can be lengthy, especially given the financial implications involved.
Comparative Analysis of Stealth Jets
| Category | Sukhoi Su-57 | F-35 | J-35 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Speed | Top speed of 2,137 kmph | Top speed of 1,931 kmph | Top speed of 2,470 kmph |
| Range | Range of 1,900 kilometres | Range up to 1,500 kilometres | Range of 1,200 kilometres |
| Cost | $30 million to $40 million per unit | $80–110 million per unit | Around $70 million |
| Combat Experience | Has combat experience | Has combat experience | Does not have any combat experience |
| Variants | 2 known variants | 3 variants | 2 variants |
Evaluating the Best Option for India
Russia is prepared to supply the Su-57 immediately, while the F-35 could be a future option as suggested by President Trump. However, the procurement process can be protracted, especially with significant financial stakes involved.
Defense analysts suggest that considering technology, economic factors, and logistics, the Sukhoi Su-57 may be the most viable choice for India at this time. Even if the US offers the F-35, it would be produced in the US and delivered as a complete unit. Should political circumstances shift, the US might restrict access to spare parts or upgrades, leaving India with a costly aircraft that is challenging to maintain.
Moreover, India is establishing manufacturing facilities to produce Sukhois domestically, making the Su-57 a more economical option. The lifetime cost of owning F-35s is projected to be around $1.5 trillion due to maintenance and upgrades, while the Sukhoi Su-57 presents a more feasible and timely solution.