Key facts
- Pakistan signed a deal with China for 40 Shenyang J-35 stealth fighter jets, with first deliveries expected by late 2026.
- Pakistan launched the first of eight Chinese-built Hangor-class submarines, featuring Air-Independent Propulsion (AIP).
- China accounted for approximately 81% of Pakistan's arms imports from 2020-2024, including jets, submarines, and drones.
- The Pakistan-China defense partnership includes technology transfers and joint production.
- China is aiding Pakistan's naval expansion in the Arabian Sea and providing intelligence support.
- Pakistan's defense acquisitions are heavily subsidized by China due to Pakistan's economic constraints.
Pakistan has signed a significant defense deal with China to acquire 40 Shenyang J-35 fifth-generation stealth fighter jets, positioning itself as the first international operator of this advanced aircraft, with initial deliveries anticipated by late 2026. This move will make Pakistan the first air force in South Asia to operate fifth-generation combat aircraft. Concurrently, Pakistan launched the first of eight Chinese-built Hangor-class submarines, which are advanced diesel-electric attack submarines featuring Air-Independent Propulsion (AIP) and modern weaponry. China is Pakistan's primary defense supplier, accounting for approximately 81% of its arms imports between 2020 and 2024. This "all-weather strategic cooperative partnership" involves extensive technology transfers, joint production, and enhanced interoperability, driven by a shared strategic goal to counterbalance India. China is also supporting Pakistan's naval expansion in the Arabian Sea and has provided intelligence and technical support during past regional standoffs. The defense ties are heavily subsidized by Beijing due to Pakistan's economic constraints, with the submarine deal alone valued at $5 billion. These acquisitions are seen as escalating a sub-continental arms race, prompting India to accelerate its own defense procurements and submarine programs.