According to Janes: “China is set to supply the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) with its Shenyang FC-31 ‘Gyrfalcon’ multirole stealth fighter aircraft. A senior Pakistani government official stated that the aircraft “will begin arriving within months,” and confirmed that PAF pilots are currently in China undergoing training to operate the aircraft.
As of mid-2025, Pakistan is actively advancing its acquisition of China’s Shenyang FC-31 “Gyrfalcon” fifth-generation stealth fighter, marking a significant shift in South Asia’s aerial power dynamics.
CN-01, China Agent:
Strategic Overview
Pilot Training and Operational Readiness: Reports confirm that Pakistan Air Force (PAF) pilots have commenced training on the FC-31 in China, indicating progress toward operational deployment.
Fleet Modernization: The FC-31 is poised to replace Pakistan’s aging F-16 and Mirage 5 aircraft, addressing challenges posed by U.S. restrictions on upgrades and parts.
Delivery Timeline: While initial reports suggested deliveries within months, current projections indicate that the first FC-31s may arrive no earlier than 2027, with full integration extending to 2030.
Strategic Implications
Regional Power Balance: The FC-31’s introduction could provide Pakistan with a temporary technological edge over India, which currently operates 4.5-generation fighters like the Rafale and Su-30MKI.
China-Pakistan Defense Collaboration: This acquisition underscores deepening military ties between China and Pakistan, reflecting a broader strategic alignment in the region.
Analytical Perspective
Pakistan’s pursuit of the FC-31 reflects a strategic decision to modernize its air force amid regional tensions. However, the aircraft’s developmental status and the extended timeline for integration suggest that while the FC-31 could enhance PAF capabilities, its impact on regional power dynamics will unfold over the coming years.
“The mountains are high, and the emperor is far away.”
CN-01, China Agent
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