The possibility of India acquiring the American-made F-35 Lightning II and Pakistan obtaining the Chinese-made J-35 has fueled discussions on how these technologically advanced, stealth-capable fighter jets could alter the balance of air power in South Asia.
Both aircraft are considered fifth-generation fighters, incorporating features like advanced stealth, sensor fusion (the ability to combine data from multiple sensors into a single, comprehensive picture), and network-centric warfare capabilities (the ability to share information seamlessly across a network of military assets).
If both countries were to add these jets to their respective air forces, a hypothetical confrontation between the Indian Air Force (IAF) and the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) would be a contest of technology, tactics, and the wider geopolitical landscape.
The F-35A, the standard takeoff and landing version that India is potentially interested in, is a multi-role fighter jet with a proven combat record. It possesses a sophisticated AN/APG-81 Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar, a Distributed Aperture System (DAS) that provides 360-degree situational awareness, and a powerful electronic warfare suite.
These features give it a significant advantage in detecting and engaging targets beyond visual range (BVR). Its stealth design minimizes its radar signature, and its internal weapons bay can carry advanced missiles like the AIM-120 AMRAAM or precision-guided bombs, ensuring it remains difficult to detect.
The F-35A is powered by a Pratt & Whitney F135 engine, generating 43,000 pounds of thrust with afterburner, providing a combat radius exceeding 1,200 km and a top speed of Mach 1.6 (approximately 1,230 mph).
The J-35, China's newest fifth-generation fighter jet showcased at the 2024 Zhuhai Airshow, is a twin-engine stealth aircraft intended for air superiority and strike missions.
While it lacks the F-35's combat experience, it incorporates a low radar cross-section, modern avionics, and WS-19 engines, allowing it to reach speeds of about Mach 1.8.
Its internal weapons bay is expected to house PL-15 long-range air-to-air missiles (with a reported range exceeding 150 km) and PL-10 short-range missiles. The J-35 can carry up to 8,000 kg of weaponry, both internally and on external hardpoints. Its smaller size compared to China's J-20 suggests a focus on agility and cost-effectiveness, which are important considerations for Pakistan's defense budget.
India's interest in the F-35 is driven by the need to counter China's expanding fleet of J-20 stealth fighters (reportedly over 200 in operation) and Pakistan's potential acquisition of the J-35.
The IAF currently operates with fewer squadrons than its authorized strength, and the development of India's own Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) is not expected to be completed until the mid-2030s. The F-35 would offer an immediate technological advantage.
However, India's purchase of the S-400 air defense system from Russia creates a potential obstacle due to U.S. Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA) restrictions. Diplomatic waivers or a separation of the S-400 and F-35 systems could provide a solution.
Pakistan, facing economic difficulties but supported by its strong relationship with China, views the J-35 as a significant upgrade over its existing F-16s and JF-17s. There are reports suggesting a potential deal for 40 J-35 jets, with deliveries possibly starting within two years, potentially financed through loans from China. This acquisition would provide the PAF with an initial advantage in stealth technology, putting pressure on India to react quickly.
A hypothetical conflict along the Line of Control (LoC) in 2028, involving both nations deploying their new stealth fighters, could unfold in several stages.
Phase 1: Detection and Positioning
The F-35's stealth capabilities and DAS would likely provide an advantage in early detection. Airborne Warning and Control Systems (AWACS) aircraft, such as India's Netra or Phalcon, along with ground-based radars, would transmit data to the F-35s, enabling them to track the J-35s despite their low radar signature.The J-35s, supported by Chinese KJ-500 AWACS or Pakistan's ZDK-03, would utilize their AESA radar and data links with ground stations to locate the F-35s.
However, the F-35's superior electronic warfare capabilities, including the ability to jam enemy sensors, could potentially delay the PAF's detection, giving the IAF an initial advantage.
Phase 2: Beyond-Visual-Range Engagement
Both aircraft are designed for BVR combat. The F-35's AIM-120D missile (with a range of approximately 180 km) and its advanced sensor fusion capabilities could potentially outperform the J-35's PL-15. IAF pilots, utilizing networked data from satellites and ground-based assets, could launch a volley of missiles while remaining outside the J-35's effective engagement range.The PAF would respond with PL-15 missiles, but their effectiveness would depend on the J-35's radar performance and China's missile guidance technology, which is less proven than that of the US.
The F-35's stealth and countermeasures (such as towed decoys) would likely neutralize many incoming threats. The J-35's twin-engine configuration might offer better resilience against a missile strike.
Phase 3: Within-Visual-Range Dogfight
If the combat reaches within-visual-range (WVR), the J-35's agility and potential thrust-vectoring capabilities (if equipped) could pose a challenge to the F-35, which prioritizes stealth over extreme maneuverability.The F-35's helmet-mounted display and AIM-9X Sidewinder missile provide off-boresight targeting (the ability to lock onto targets not directly in front of the aircraft), but the J-35's PL-10 missile, with similar capabilities, would create a more even match.
Pilot training would become a crucial factor. India's experienced IAF pilots, trained in exercises like Red Flag (a multinational air combat training exercise), might have an advantage over the PAF, which relies significantly on Chinese training protocols.
Phase 4: Outcome and Attrition
The F-35's integration with India's overall air defense network – including S-400 systems, Rafale fighters, and Su-30MKI aircraft – could be a decisive factor.The IAF's numerical advantage (potentially two F-35 squadrons versus one J-35 squadron for the PAF) and layered defenses could overwhelm the PAF, forcing the J-35s to withdraw or risk significant losses.
Pakistan's smaller fleet and potential maintenance challenges, compounded by economic limitations, would hinder sustained operations. In contrast, India's greater resources and logistical support from the U.S. would help maintain the F-35s' operational readiness.
In this projected scenario, the F-35's established technology and interoperability with other systems give India a significant advantage. However, the J-35's lower cost and China's backing make it a considerable threat.
While the mountainous terrain of Kashmir would limit the advantages of low-altitude stealth, India's larger air force and more extensive infrastructure provide a cumulative edge.
Pakistan could attempt to compensate with tactics like swarming (using large numbers of aircraft) or integrating with Chinese drones, but sustaining a force of 40 J-35s against India's multi-faceted response would likely be a significant challenge.
