China has solidified its position as Pakistan’s primary arms supplier, accounting for 81% of Pakistan’s weapons imports over the past five years, according to data from the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI). This marks a significant increase from the 74% recorded in the previous five-year period, reflecting Islamabad’s growing reliance on Beijing for advanced defense systems.
China’s rise as a dominant defense supplier comes as it seeks to enhance its own self-reliance in military technology while expanding its influence in South Asia. This growing security partnership has positioned China as a key strategic player in the region, further intensifying its geopolitical rivalry with the United States.
Pakistan’s total arms imports surged by 61% in the past five years, with China supplying cutting-edge military technology, including long-range reconnaissance drones and Type 054A guided-missile frigates. Notably, China delivered the first of eight Hangor II submarines to Pakistan in April 2023 as part of a $5 billion deal—one of the most valuable military contracts China has signed.
Among Pakistan’s key acquisitions from China are:
- Over 600 VT-4 battle tanks
- 36 J-10CE 4.5-generation fighter jets, with deliveries beginning in 2022
- Four Type 054A frigates and two Azmat-class corvettes
- A variety of surface-to-air missile systems, including the HQ-9, LY-80, and FN-6 models
- The country’s first spy ship, the Rizwan
The JF-17 fighter jet, a joint development between China’s Chengdu Aircraft Industry Group and Pakistan Aeronautical Complex, has remained the backbone of Pakistan’s air force. Its latest Block III variant, featuring an advanced electronically scanned array radar, entered service in 2023. Military analysts suggest that China may also be open to exporting its fifth-generation J-35 fighter jets to Pakistan should Islamabad request them, further boosting Pakistan’s air capabilities.
China’s deepening defense ties with Pakistan have significant implications for regional stability, particularly in the context of Pakistan’s ongoing tensions with India. Since the border skirmishes of 2016, Islamabad has significantly increased its defense spending, drawing it closer to Beijing. In contrast, India has sought military partnerships with the United States, Russia, and other Western allies to counter China’s growing influence.
Siemon Wezeman, a senior researcher at SIPRI, noted that Beijing remains Pakistan’s only real defense ally, stating that China’s willingness to provide advanced weaponry demonstrates its strategic trust in Pakistan. Conversely, Pakistan serves a crucial role for Beijing by offering secure access to bases near the Indian Ocean and the Middle East, strengthening China’s regional footprint.
Once a significant arms supplier to Pakistan, the United States has dramatically scaled back its military exports to the country. Factors such as dissatisfaction with Pakistan’s counterterrorism efforts, its nuclear program, and concerns over democratic governance have led Washington to restrict arms sales. This shift has further cemented Pakistan’s reliance on Chinese military hardware.
The evolving security landscape in Asia has led to the formation of distinct geopolitical blocs: a “China camp,” represented by China and Pakistan, and a “non-China camp,” including the United States and India. Wezeman warned that the ongoing India-Pakistan rivalry remains a potential flashpoint for conflict, with arms sales playing a significant role in shaping alliances.
