ISLAMABAD: Recent developments in China’s aerospace sector indicate afast-tracked serial production of the J-35 fifth-generation stealthfighter, developed by Shenyang Aircraft Corporation, raising prospects foraccelerated deliveries to strategic partners including Pakistan. Statemedia footage from early 2026 shows unpainted, factory-fresh J-35 aircraftconducting joint flights, signaling a shift from prototype testing to massmanufacturing at expanded facilities in Liaoning province. This ramp-upaligns with Beijing’s military modernization goals and could enable timelyfulfillment of export commitments.
The J-35, evolving from the earlier FC-31 demonstrator, features advancedstealth characteristics, twin-engine configuration, and multirolecapabilities suitable for air superiority, ground attack, and carrieroperations. Chinese state broadcaster releases in January 2026 highlightedthe aircraft’s first flights of the year, with green-primed airframesindicating fresh production batches. Analysts observe that ShenyangAircraft Corporation has pledged to double overall warplane output withinthree to five years, supported by a new intelligent manufacturing complexin Shenyang Aerospace City.
Production milestones include dual-aircraft test flights near SACfacilities in early 2026, confirming entry into serial production phase forboth naval J-35 and land-based J-35A variants. Reports from credibledefense outlets note that assembly lines now feature multiple fighters,with over 57 units observed by late 2025. This acceleration follows theaircraft’s official induction and carrier trials on China’s Fujian carrierin 2025, positioning it as a complement to the heavier J-20 in People’sLiberation Army operations.
Pakistan’s longstanding defense ties with China position it as a primecandidate for the export variant, often designated FC-31 or J-35E. Officialstatements and media disclosures from 2025 indicate interest in up to 40units, with pilot training reportedly underway in China since prior years.Although Pakistani officials have occasionally downplayed finalized deals,Pentagon assessments in late 2025 confirmed offers of J-35 fighters as partof broader packages including airborne early warning and missile defensesystems.
The strategic implications for South Asia are significant, as the J-35would introduce fifth-generation stealth capabilities to the Pakistan AirForce, enhancing deterrence amid regional airpower dynamics. Deliveriescould commence as early as mid-2026 for export models, contingent onproduction scaling. Shenyang’s focus on parallel variants ensures priorityfor domestic naval and air force needs while accommodating allied orders,reflecting China’s growing export ambitions in advanced aviation.
Experts highlight that SAC’s expanded infrastructure, covering vastindustrial zones, enables rapid output comparable to leading globalprograms. Footage from state sources shows assembly hangars with multipleJ-35 airframes, underscoring confidence in achieving full-scale production.This development coincides with China’s dual-stealth fighter strategy,where the J-35 handles multirole missions alongside the J-20’s airdominance focus.
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For Pakistan, acquiring the J-35 would modernize its fleet beyondfourth-generation platforms like the J-10C and JF-17, addressing long-termrequirements for contested airspace operations. Negotiations emphasizetechnology transfer and favorable financing, consistent with Sino-Pakistanicollaboration. While no official contract has been publicly confirmedrecently, ongoing production boosts suggest readiness to meet potentialtimelines.
The global context reveals China’s push to challenge Western dominance infifth-generation exports, with the J-35 marketed for quicker delivery andfewer restrictions than competitors. Production ramp-up supports both PLANavy carrier aviation and PLAAF regional superiority, with export variantstailored for international clients seeking advanced yet accessibleplatforms.
In summary, Shenyang’s accelerated J-35 manufacturing signals a pivotalphase in China’s aerospace prowess, with direct relevance for Pakistan’sdefense modernization. Sustained progress could see early inductions,reshaping aerial balances in strategic theaters.
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