Pakistan betray China? denies big deal of major fighter jet…, Is it dragon’s strategy or Islamabad’s ‘U’ turn?

Pakistan has officially denied reports claiming about its deal with China to procure the fifth-generation J-35A stealth fighter jets. There were media reports that Chinese weapons were used by Pakistan against India during Operation Sindoor. While global media suggested Pakistan was set to become the first foreign buyer of China’s J-35A stealth jets, Islamabad dismissed these claims as mere speculation.

Is It Chinese Strategy?

Media reports also claim that these rumors may have been part of a Chinese strategy to promote the J-35A globally and attract potential buyers.  The denial comes at a time when there are also reports that China is attempting to discredit France’s Rafale fighter jets. Rafales were reportedly used during Operation Sindoor between India and Pakistan in May. According to a French intelligence agency, Chinese defense officials posted in foreign embassies have been instructed to question the Rafale’s performance possibly to prevent countries like Indonesia from increasing their orders and to create market space for Chinese aircraft.

Pakistan And China Deal

According to Bloomberg and other international media outlets report, in June 2025 that Pakistan was ready to purchase the J-35A stealth jets developed by China’s Shenyang Aircraft Corporation. The reports claimed Pakistan would be the first foreign buyer. After this, the shares of AVIC (parent company of Shenyang Aircraft Corporation) surged by 10%, indicating anticipated success in Chinese defense exports.

Earlier reports suggested Pakistan was planning to buy 40 J-35A jets at a discounted price under a ‘flash sale’ offer. Delivery was expected to begin by August 2025, with flexible payment terms. The J-35A is equipped with AESA radar and PL-17 long-range missiles, and its capabilities are often compared to the American F-35.

Pakistan Denies Deal

In a television interview, Pakistan’s Defense Minister Khawaja Asif categorically denied any such agreement. He hinted that the entire narrative might be a move to promote China’s defense industry.

Despite the denial, some reports citing unidentified defense sources previously claimed that the Pakistan Air Force had approved the purchase and pilot training had already begun in China. It was also reported that the J-35A was being considered to counter India’s Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) program, which is expected to roll out only after 2035.

News