Chinese defence stocks surge as Pakistan buys J-35 stealth jets
Shares of Chinese defense firms surged after Pakistan confirmed plans to acquire advanced J-35A stealth fighter jets from China, with AVIC Shenyang Aircraft Co. hitting its 10% daily trading limit and other aerospace stocks rising sharply. The announcement followed weeks of speculation and reports that Pakistani pilots are already training in China. The J-35A, China’s second fifth-generation fighter after the J-20, features stealth capabilities, advanced sensors, and long-range strike capacity, and is expected to replace Pakistan’s aging F-16 and Mirage fleets. Deliveries may begin by August, potentially enhancing Pakistan’s air power and altering the regional balance with India.
Shares of Chinese defence firms jumped Monday after reports of Pakistan’s plans to purchase advanced J-35 stealth fighter jets from China, according to a Bloomberg report.
AVIC Shenyang Aircraft Co., the J-35’s manufacturer, hit its 10% daily limit in Shanghai trading, extending gains for a third straight session. Aerospace Nanhu Electronic Information Technology Co. also saw a surge, rising as much as 15%.
The rally followed a formal statement on social media from Pakistan confirming its intent to acquire the jets, after weeks of unofficial reports.
Pakistani officials had earlier indicated that pilots were already in China undergoing training ahead of expected deliveries.
J-35 fighter jet offers stealth, long-range, and deep-strike capabilities
China’s J-35A fifth-generation fighter jet, soon to be delivered to Pakistan, features stealth technology, advanced sensors, and deep-strike capabilities that could significantly boost Pakistan’s air power, according to defence analyst Brandon J. Weichert.
Developed by Shenyang Aircraft Corporation, the J-35A is China’s second fifth-gen aircraft after the Chengdu J-20. It is equipped with an active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar, electro-optical targeting systems, and advanced avionics to enhance situational awareness and targeting precision.
Designed to evade detection, the aircraft’s stealth profile reduces its radar cross-section. It is compatible with long-range PL-15 and PL-17 air-to-air missiles, offering a major advantage in beyond-visual-range combat.
Powered by Russian RD-93 or Chinese WS-19 turbofan engines, the J-35A can reach speeds of up to 1,367 mph. Deliveries to Pakistan could begin by August, with pilots already undergoing training in China.
The jet is expected to replace Pakistan’s aging fleet of F-16s and Mirages. Weichert notes that the J-35A’s capabilities will enable Pakistan to better counter Indian air defences and conduct deep-strike missions, potentially shifting the regional aerial balance.
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