Pakistan Declines J-35 Jets, Chinese Fighters in Demand Across Muslim Countries: Pentagon Report

WASHINGTON/BEIJING: China’s aerospace industry continues to make rapid strides in research, development, and innovation. The country has already deployed fifth-generation fighters, including the J-20 and J-35, and claims to be developing sixth-generation combat aircraft. A recent Pentagon report submitted to the U.S. Congress reveals that China is preparing to export at least three of its fighter jets, including the J-35, the fourth-generation J-10C, and the JF-17 — a fighter jointly developed with Pakistan.

Interest in Chinese Fighters Soars in Muslim Countries
Despite extensive development of advanced stealth aircraft, the Pentagon report notes that Pakistan has not purchased the J-35, contrary to repeated claims in Pakistani media. While the J-35A is designed for carrier operations, no sales had been recorded as of May 2025. However, countries such as Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates have expressed significant interest in acquiring these jets.

China’s Expanding Military Aviation Programs
The Pentagon assessment also highlights other Chinese aircraft programs, including the J-36 and J-XDS stealth fighters, the electronic warfare J-15D, and the Y-20B-based Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) aircraft, designed to detect stealth fighters.

China is also pursuing an ambitious naval expansion. By 2035, it plans to build six additional aircraft carriers, bringing its total fleet to nine, some of which may be nuclear-powered. If realized, this would place the Chinese Navy on par with the United States, which currently operates 11 carriers.

J-10C and JF-17 Export Prospects
Currently, Pakistan remains the only confirmed buyer of the J-10C, having ordered 36 units, of which 20 have been delivered. Other countries, including Egypt, Uzbekistan, Indonesia, Iran, and Bangladesh, have shown interest, although actual purchases will depend on geopolitical developments.

In summary, while Pakistan has declined to buy the J-35, Chinese fighter jets are attracting attention across several Muslim-majority countries, suggesting potential orders in the near future.