Azerbaijan finalized an agreement to purchase JF-17 Thunder jets from Pakistan

Pakistan has recently signed an agreement to sell JF-17 Block-III fighter jets to Azerbaijan as part of its initiative to enhance defense collaboration with allied nations.

During a recent visit to Pakistan, Azerbaijan’s President Ilham Aliyev was informed about the combat capabilities and versatile applications of the JF-17 Block-III fighter jet. Following this visit and at the request of the Azerbaijani government, Pakistan dispatched a contingent from the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) to participate in ADEX-2024 in Baku, showcasing the airworthiness and static display of the JF-17 Thunder Block-III.

During this deployment, the JF-17 successfully conducted air-to-air refueling operations, flying directly to Baku, Azerbaijan, from a PAF Multi-Role Tanker Transport (MRTT) aircraft, thereby demonstrating its long-range capabilities.

President Aliyev toured the static display of the JF-17 Block-III and later observed an impressive aerial demonstration by the JF-17 Thunder, highlighting the skill of PAF pilots and the aircraft’s agility and maneuverability.

The JF-17 Thunder Block III is a 4.5 generation multi-role fighter aircraft, featuring an AESA radar and long-range beyond-visual-range (BVR) capabilities, enabling it to undertake a diverse range of combat missions and enhancing contemporary air power.

President Ilham Aliyev emphasized that the support from Pakistan will significantly contribute to strengthening military cooperation between the two nations, fostering closer defense ties and reinforcing the strong brotherly relations that exist between Pakistan and Azerbaijan.