But where does the timeline of FGFA induction come into this discussion?
The No. I referred is the no we plan to induct. Where does the time frame come in?
Besides, Neither PAF nor PLAAF will get it before us... So its not a concern at all.
More over the bird we are about to induct is already flying.
Just responding to your previous statement which makes it sound like you will get these 250 FGFA overnight.
You Got to worry more for the 250 FGFAs , which are certain to be fielded by India before China which is yet to test even a Fifth Gen Fighter.
Why does PAF need to worry when you won't get 250 till 2035?
BTW, don't underestimate the Chinese either, just because they don't publicly display prototypes like the Russians, doesn't mean they're behind.
For example, the J-10 prototypes had their maiden flight in 1998, entered service in 2004, but photos of them didn't appear until 2007 !
Expect the same type of secrecy with J-XX.