To strengthen its air force, Pakistan is introducing China's Shenyang FC-31 'Gyrfalcon' stealth fighter jets. Known also as J-35, this fifth-generation jet is part of Pakistan's strategic measure to balance India's expanding air prowess. Meanwhile, the Indian Air Force (IAF) is dealing with squadron shortages and anticipates its indigenous AMCA jets by 2035. Let’s delve into the details, statistics, and implications for India...
What is the FC-31 Gyrfalcon Jet?
The FC-31 is a fifth-generation stealth fighter designed by China's Shenyang Aircraft Corporation, a formidable adversary to America's F-35 and China's own J-20. Though not as advanced as the J-20, it features unique capabilities...
Source: aajtak
Speed: Mach 1.8 (2,200 km/h).
Range: 1,200 km (extendable to 1,900 km with aerial refueling).
Weaponry: PL-17 missiles (400 km range), capable of targeting from a distance while evading radar.
Maximum take-off weight: 28,000 kg.
Engine: WS-19 engine producing 12 tons of thrust.
Key Features: Stealth design, AESA radar, and internal weapons bay for enhanced radar evasion.
Armed with Supersonic Missiles and Bombs
The fighter boasts 6 external and 6 internal hardpoints, capable of carrying a total of 10,000 kg of weaponry. It can be equipped with 12 medium-range air-to-air missiles, 8 supersonic air-to-ground missiles, and a variety of bombs, holding either 8 deep-penetration 500 kg bombs or 30 smaller ones.
Pilot Training: PAF Pilots and Technicians Undergoing Training in China
The FC-31 deliveries are set to commence in a few months. Pakistan plans to acquire 30-36 jets, expected in batches over the next 12-18 months. The jet significantly outmatches Pakistan’s older JF-17, F-16, and Mirage III/V aircraft.
Pakistan’s Strategy: Challenging India
This move follows the May 2025 India-Pakistan conflict (Operation Sindur), where India hit PAF assets with BrahMos-A missiles. Pakistan’s HQ-9 air defense struggled against swift, low-altitude Indian missiles. Thus, deploying FC-31 seeks to bridge this gap.
Long-distance Strikes: The PL-17 missile can target deep within India.
Team Strategy: FC-31 alongside JF-17 and J-10C jets will act as
