China has publicly showcased the export version of its fifth-generation stealth fighter jet, the J-35AE, positioning it as a potential rival to the American-made F-35 Lightning II. Pakistan is widely seen as the most likely first customer for the aircraft, per an NDTV report.
The rollout comes nearly a year after Operation Sindoor, which led to heightened military tensions and aerial confrontations between India and Pakistan.
China reveals export-focused stealth jet
Fresh visuals aired by Chinese state broadcaster CCTV showed a fully assembled J-35AE marked with serial number 001 emerging from a hangar during a Labour Day special programme.
Unlike military aircraft carrying air force insignia, the jet displayed the branding of the Aviation Industry Corporation of China, indicating its role as an export platform.
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According to reports, this is the first time the export-specific version of the aircraft has been shown publicly in complete form.
The J-35 programme is China’s second fifth-generation stealth fighter project after the Chengdu J-20. Developed by Shenyang Aircraft Corporation, the aircraft features twin engines, internal weapons bays and advanced radar and infrared systems.
Video of China's J-35AE fighter jet export pic.twitter.com/IoBa9NgxBC
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Designed as a competitor to the F-35
The land-based J-35A was first displayed at the Zhuhai Air Show in November 2024. China has claimed that over 50 aircraft from the J-35 family are already in operation.
Reports suggest the export-focused J-35AE may have a top speed of around Mach 1.8 and use AESA radar capable of tracking multiple targets simultaneously.
The aircraft is designed to carry PL-15 air-to-air missiles inside internal weapon bays to preserve stealth capability. It can also carry additional external weapons if needed.
China has promoted the aircraft as a lower-cost alternative to the F-35, with estimated prices ranging from $35 million to $80 million per unit.
Pakistan seen as likely launch customer
Although no formal export deal has been announced yet, Pakistan is considered the strongest contender to acquire the aircraft first.
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Pakistan Air Force chief Zaheer Sidhu had publicly expressed interest in the jet in early 2024. Later reports suggested approval for a possible 40-aircraft deal.
In 2025, reports also indicated that Pakistani pilots had begun training in China as Islamabad explored plans to induct the J-35A into its fleet within two years.
