The Pakistani Air Force is enhancing its fleet with the addition of FC-31 Gyrfalcon stealth fighters sourced from China, marking a significant strategic upgrade. This initiative was initially announced in 2024, coinciding with the introduction of other Beijing-manufactured military and transport aircraft into the air service.
A government official in Pakistan has confirmed that the first batch of FC-31 jets is expected to arrive within months, although specific details regarding the acquisition process remain sparse. Previous reports indicated that the deal could involve the delivery of 30 to 40 aircraft to Pakistan, reflecting a significant investment in modern military capabilities.
These stealth fighters are equipped with the Chinese-developed PL-17 long-range air-to-air missile, which is capable of targeting threats at distances exceeding 400 kilometers (approximately 249 miles). This advanced armament underlines the increasing focus on enhancing aerial combat readiness and deterrence measures in the region.
The FC-31 Gyrfalcon, produced by Shenyang Aircraft Corporation, is a fifth-generation fighter specifically tailored for the operational needs of the People’s Liberation Army Air Force and the naval air force. With a length of 17 meters (56 feet) and a wingspan of 12 meters (38 feet), this advanced jet is powered by twin Klimov RD-93 or WS-13E afterburning turbofans.
In addition to its high-speed capabilities, with a top speed reaching Mach 1.8 (2,223 kilometers or 1,381 miles per hour), the FC-31 boasts a substantial operational range of 2,000 kilometers (3,219 miles) and can operate at altitudes up to 16,000 meters (52,493 feet). The aircraft’s design includes sophisticated electronic warfare countermeasures, as well as the payload capacity for bombs and supersonic multi-domain missiles.
As Pakistan moves forward with integrating these advanced fighters, the strategic landscape of the region may see notable shifts, particularly in air power dynamics, underscoring the importance of this development within the broader context of military modernization efforts.
