PAF’s JF-17 Block III land in Azerbaijan for Indus Shield Alpha Exercise

ISLAMABAD/BAKU: In a powerful display of operational capabilities and growing strategic ties, the Pakistan Air Force’s (PAF) latest JF-17 Thunder Block III fighter jets have arrived in Azerbaijan to participate in the Indus Shield Alpha bilateral air combat exercise, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) announced on Sunday.

The deployment of PAF aircraft to Azerbaijan was made possible by a non-stop flight from Pakistan, during which the jets successfully performed mid-air refueling – a feat that highlights the PAF’s advanced operational capabilities and endurance in extended missions. It is a significant demonstration of regional air power projection and enhanced interoperability between the two brotherly countries.

The JF-17 Block III, jointly developed by Pakistan and China, is equipped with state-of-the-art avionics, AESA radar, and BVR (beyond visual range) missile capability – making it one of the most robust fighter platforms in the region.

The arrival of the JF-17 Block III jets comes as part of broader military and strategic cooperation between Pakistan and Azerbaijan. The Indus Shield Alpha exercise aims to strengthen joint air combat training, tactical coordination, and real-time interoperability between the air forces of the two countries.

This enhanced defense cooperation echoes the political and diplomatic momentum gained earlier this week, when high-level parliamentary delegations from Turkey and Azerbaijan visited Lahore. The third trilateral meeting of the speakers of the parliaments of Pakistan, Turkey, and Azerbaijan concluded with a joint declaration focused on regional security, strategic partnership, and defense cooperation.

Punjab Assembly Speaker Malik Muhammad Ahmed Khan, who hosted Turkish Grand National Assembly Speaker Prof. Dr. Numan Kurtulmus and Azerbaijani Milli Majlis Speaker Sahiba Ghafarova, described the alliance between the three countries as an “unbreakable bond of brotherhood, friendship and love”. He stressed the need to enhance cooperation in all areas, including defence.

The trilateral meeting highlighted shared views on defence and security issues, including support for each other’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. Speaker Ayaz Sadiq reiterated Pakistan’s unwavering support for Azerbaijan’s stance during the 44-day war and Turkey’s stance on regional issues.

Azerbaijani Speaker Sahiba Ghafarova thanked Pakistan for its steadfast support, while Turkish Speaker Kurtulmus declared that “Pakistan, Turkey and Azerbaijan are three states but one nation.”