China’s decision to fast-track the delivery of 30 J-35 stealth fighter jets to Pakistan at a staggering 50% discount has sent shockwaves
Introduction
China’s Stealth Gamble – China’s decision to fast-track the delivery of 30 J-35 stealth fighter jets to Pakistan at a staggering 50% discount has sent shockwaves across defense circles and social media platforms. While Beijing remains tight-lipped, Chinese citizens and military analysts are openly questioning the rationale behind supplying an unfinished, untested aircraft to a financially struggling ally. The deal, expected to begin deliveries in August 2025, has raised concerns about China’s production capacity, Pakistan’s ability to pay, and the geopolitical implications of such a move.
Table of Contents
The Controversial Deal
The J-35, also known as the FC-31, is China’s answer to the American F-35 stealth fighter. However, unlike its Western counterpart, the J-35 has yet to be inducted into the People’s Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF). The aircraft is still undergoing testing, making its export to Pakistan highly unusual.
Adding fuel to the fire, Pakistan’s pending payments for previous defense purchases, including the J-10C fighter jets, have raised doubts about its ability to finance this new acquisition. Critics argue that Pakistan, which relies on IMF aid for economic survival, should prioritize industrial development and infrastructure rather than military expansion.
Public Outrage in China
Chinese social media platforms have erupted with criticism, with many questioning why Beijing would subsidize a military client state with a questionable financial record. Some users have bluntly called the move “bullshit”, while others sarcastically remarked that “two more powerful printers are coming”, implying that China may need to print more money to fund the deal.
One user from Zhejiang province voiced frustration over Pakistan’s overdue payments, stating, “Pakistan has also made a lot of fake news. How can it afford to buy it? It hasn’t even paid for the J-10.” Another user from Guangdong criticized China’s priorities, saying, “China’s own production of the J-35 has not yet been built up. How can it be given to them?”.
Geopolitical Implications
The timing of the deal has also raised eyebrows. Coming just days after the Pahalgam terror attack in India, the move is being interpreted as China arming Pakistan against India while simultaneously testing its weapons for global exports.
Pakistan’s military has claimed that its Chinese-supplied J-10CE jets, armed with PL-15 missiles, have successfully engaged Indian Rafale fighters during Operation Sindoor. However, these claims remain unverified outside Pakistani media, leading to skepticism about China’s marketing strategy.
Strategic Gamble or Reckless Move?
While China hopes to use this deal to promote the J-35 globally, no other country has agreed to purchase even the J-10CE model. Experts argue that the J-35’s reliance on Russian engines, such as the RD-93 and AL-31, makes it less attractive to international buyers.
With Pakistani pilots already undergoing training in China, the deal appears to be moving forward despite the backlash. However, many in China are asking a fundamental question: Who benefits from this deal? If the sale proceeds, Beijing may frame it as a strategic move to cement influence in the region, but for ordinary Chinese citizens, it looks like a high-risk bet on an unfinished aircraft sold to a financially unstable buyer.
Conclusion
China’s discounted J-35 deal to Pakistan is shaping up to be one of the most controversial arms sales in recent history. While Beijing aims to expand its defense exports, the financial and strategic risks of supplying an untested fighter jet to a cash-strapped ally remain uncertain. Whether this move will strengthen China’s global military footprint or backfire spectacularly is yet to be seen.
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