SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
A senior Indian Air Force (IAF) official, speaking to idrw.org, has downplayed the strategic impact of Pakistan’s potential acquisition of China’s J-35A stealth fighter jets. The official emphasized that the addition of these aircraft to the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) inventory is unlikely to alter the balance of firepower in the region or provide Pakistan with a significant edge to conduct raids inside Indian territory.
The official pointed to the limited number of J-35A jets Pakistan is likely to procure, stating that the quantity would be “insignificant” in shifting the regional air power dynamics. This assessment draws parallels with Pakistan’s earlier acquisition of approximately 20 J-10CE fighter jets from China. During a recent aerial clash with the IAF, the J-10CEs, equipped with PL-15E air-to-air missiles, failed to achieve any significant success against Indian jets. The official noted that most of the PL-15E missiles fired by the PAF’s J-10CEs were ineffective, underscoring the IAF’s superior tactics, technology, and preparedness.
“The J-35A, even if acquired, will not give Pakistan the capability to dominate or conduct deep strikes into India,” the official said. “The PAF’s operational constraints, including limited numbers and logistical challenges, mean that such acquisitions are more symbolic than transformative.”
The IAF’s confidence stems from its robust air defense systems, advanced fighter fleet, including Rafale and Su-30 MKI jets, and superior training and electronic warfare capabilities. The official highlighted that India’s integrated air defense network, coupled with real-time situational awareness, ensures that any potential PAF incursion would face significant resistance.
While the J-35A is a stealth platform and represents an advancement over Pakistan’s existing fleet, the IAF official dismissed concerns about its immediate impact. The high costs associated with procuring and maintaining stealth fighters, combined with Pakistan’s economic constraints, suggest that only a small number of J-35As could be acquired, limiting their operational significance.
The IAF continues to modernize its fleet, with plans to induct additional indigenous platforms like the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) and bolster its missile defense systems. These developments are expected to maintain India’s qualitative and quantitative edge in the region.
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