Islamabad, June 10, 2025: In a significant step toward modernizing its military capabilities, Pakistan has revealed plans to acquire advanced defence systems from China, including the fifth-generation J-35 stealth fighter jets, KJ-500 airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) aircraft, and the HQ-19 ballistic missile defence system.
According to a report by Bloomberg, the announcement has triggered a strong rally in Chinese defence stocks. Shares of Shenyang Aircraft Corporation—the manufacturer of the J-35—surged over 10%, marking the J-35’s first confirmed international sale and positioning Pakistan as the jet’s launch customer.
Developed by AVIC’s Shenyang Aircraft Corporation, the J-35 is a carrier-capable, multirole stealth fighter equipped with cutting-edge radar-evading technologies. Its addition to the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) fleet is expected to enhance both offensive and defensive aerial operations.
Alongside the J-35, Pakistan is also set to acquire the KJ-500 AEW&C platform, a compact, high-efficiency radar aircraft designed to boost airspace surveillance, battle management, and aerial command capabilities. Military analysts believe the KJ-500 will improve situational awareness and operational coordination during regional conflicts.
Another critical component of the proposed defence package is the HQ-19 system—China’s advanced high-altitude ballistic missile interceptor. Capable of neutralizing medium- to long-range missile threats and reportedly equipped with limited anti-satellite capabilities, the HQ-19 would significantly reinforce Pakistan’s strategic deterrence posture. Notably, this marks the system’s first known offer for export.
The anticipated deal has had immediate ripple effects in China’s financial markets. In addition to Shenyang Aircraft Corporation, stocks of associated defence suppliers like Aerospace Nanhu Electronic Information Technology surged by up to 15% on reports of Pakistan’s interest. Analysts view Islamabad’s move as part of a broader geopolitical recalibration and a strategic response to India’s advances in missile defence and next-generation combat aircraft.
This procurement aligns with Pakistan’s recent efforts to deepen defence cooperation with China. During a high-level bilateral meeting, Pakistani officials confirmed that Beijing had offered to supply 40 J-35 jets under a broader security cooperation framework.
Amid ongoing regional tensions, including recent skirmishes along the Pakistan-India border, this latest initiative signals Islamabad’s intent to develop a more technologically advanced and regionally competitive military force. It also reaffirms China’s growing role as a key arms exporter and Pakistan’s most steadfast defence partner.
