China is gearing up to sell its new fifth-generation stealth multirole fighter jet, the Shenyang J-35A, to the global market. This jet not only enhances China's military strength but could also become a significant threat to India in South Asia, especially when neighboring countries like Pakistan are buying it. Let's dive into the features of this jet, its global sales plan, and the threat it poses to India.
What is the J-35A Stealth Fighter Jet?
The J-35A is a modern fifth-generation stealth fighter jet developed by China's Shenyang Aircraft Corporation (SAC). It evolved from the FC-31 Gyrfalcon prototype, initially designed for export. This jet comes in two variants...
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J-35A: Ground-operated model for the Chinese Air Force (PLAAF).
J-35: Carrier-operated model for the navy.
This jet is designed for multiple missions, including air superiority, ground strikes, and electronic warfare. Its key features include...
Stealth Technology: Specially designed features to reduce Radar Cross Section (RCS), like S-shaped inlets and an internal weapon bay.
Advanced Electronics: Equipped with an Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar, Infrared Search and Track (IRST), and data fusion systems.
Weapons: Capable of carrying up to 8000 kg of weapons, including the PL-17, an air-to-air missile with a range of 400 km.
Engines: WS-13E or WS-19 turbofan engines providing supercruise capability (supersonic speeds without afterburner).
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China's Global Sales Plan
China publicly unveiled the J-35A at the Zhuhai Airshow in November 2024. Now, it aims to sell it globally, especially to...
Pakistan as the First Buyer:
Pakistan has decided to purchase 40 J-35A jets, with deliveries possibly starting in August 2025. Pakistani pilots are already training in China.
Other Potential Buyers:
Countries in Africa, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia, including Egypt, have shown interest. Egypt recently displayed a J-35 model in a show, indicating its interest.
Strategy:
China seeks to make this jet 'combat-proven' with Pakistan, to attract other buyers. Incentives like a 50% discount and easy payment terms are also offered.
Source: aajtak
China's goal is to compete with advanced jets like the US's F-35, Russia's Su-57, and South Korea's KF-21. The J-35A is likely to be less expensive than the F-35, making it attractive to developing countries.
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The Threat to India
The delivery of J-35A jets to Pakistan could alter the balance of air power in South Asia, posing several threats to India...
Lack of Fifth-Generation Jets:
The Indian Air Force (IAF) currently lacks fifth-generation stealth jets. India's indigenous Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) is not expected until 2035. Until then, India relies on fourth-generation jets like Su-30MKI, Rafale, Mirage 2000, and Tejas.
Pakistan's Growing Strength:
The J-35A far surpasses Pakistan's older technologies, like the JF-17 and F-16. Its stealth capabilities, long-range missiles (like PL-17), and advanced sensors could challenge India's radar and missile defense systems, such as the S-400.
China-Pakistan Alliance:
Supplying Pakistan with J-35A strengthens the China-Pakistan military alliance. Combined with China's J-20 stealth jets, these could pose a twin-front threat to India.
Lack of Air Superiority:
The IAF currently has 31 squadrons, while 42 are required. The deployment of J-35A allows Pakistan deep strike and air blockade capabilities, weakening India's air superiority.
Regional Imbalance:
If other countries like Egypt acquire the J-35A, it could further complicate India's regional strategy and significantly strengthen China's position in the global arms market.
India's Challenges and Shortcomings
AMCA Delays: The AMCA prototype is expected by 2028-29, with full deployment by 2035. This time gap leaves India in a weaker position.
Radar and Defense System Limits: India's current radar systems, like the S-400, can detect stealth jets but may struggle with the advanced technology and PL-17 missiles of the J-35A.
Economic and Technical Hurdles: The development of the AMCA involves a cost of 150 billion INR and technical challenges. India must advance in indigenous engine and sensor technology.
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India's Potential Strategies
To counter the threat of the J-35A, India needs to adopt immediate and long-term measures...
Immediate Actions
Purchase of Foreign Jets:
Some experts suggest India could buy fifth-generation jets like Russia's Su-57 as an interim solution. However, some experts disagree, as India previously exited the Su-57 program.
Upgrade Rafale and Su-30s:
Enhance existing jets with advanced sensors, electronic warfare systems, and Meteor missiles.
Improve Radar Systems:
Develop over-the-horizon radars like Russia's Container-S and enhance data-link systems.
Long-term Measures
Expedite the AMCA:
Promote private sector and foreign collaboration to complete the AMCA program at a war footing.
Self-reliance in Technology:
Achieve self-reliance in stealth, sensor fusion, and engine technology.
Boosting Capabilities:
Rapidly purchase and produce new jets to increase the IAF's squadron strength to 42.
Diplomatic Strategy
Share military technology with allies like the US, France, and Israel. Strengthen alliances with regional countries to curb China's escalating military sales.
