Pakistan China Stealth Fighter Deal Sparks Outrage
The sale of the J-35A stealth fighter jets to Pakistan has significant implications for regional security and China's military influence. With the deal sparking outrage on Chinese social media, it is clear that the move is not without its risks and challenges. As Pakistan prepares to induct the FC-31 aircraft, the international community will be watching closely to see how the situation develops.
China's decision to sell 30 J-35A stealth fighter jets to Pakistan at a 50% discounted price has sparked widespread criticism on Chinese social media, with many questioning the financial prudence and strategic wisdom behind the move. The deal has raised concerns about China's priorities, given Pakistan's history of unpaid debts and the fact that the J-35A is still in development and has not been inducted into China's air force.
The controversy surrounding the deal has been fueled by the timing of the announcement, which comes just days after a deadly terror attack in Jammu & Kashmir. Critics argue that China is subsidizing a client state with an unfinished product, and that the deal may be a strategic move to cement influence in the region. The move is seen as part of China's attempt to arm Pakistan as a regional counterweight to India, but many are questioning the risks and benefits of such a move.
Pakistan is set to start inducting the Shenyang FC-31 'Gyrfalcon' multirole stealth fighter aircraft from China, with the first aircraft expected to arrive within months. Pakistani pilots are currently undergoing training in China to fly the aircraft, which will be equipped with China's PL-17 air-to-air missile. The exact number of aircraft to be supplied to the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) is unknown, but previous reports suggested 30-40 aircraft.
The deal has also drawn scrutiny from India, which sees it as China arming Pakistan amid renewed cross-border tensions. As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how the deal will impact regional dynamics and China's relationships with its neighbors. One thing is certain, however: the controversy surrounding the deal is far from over, and will likely continue to spark debate and discussion in the days and weeks to come.