A Pakistan Air Force (PAF) contingent, featuring the state-of-the-art JF-17 Thunder Block-III fighter jets, has successfully landed in Azerbaijan to participate in the bilateral aerial combat exercise Indus Shield Alpha, reported on Sunday, citing Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).
In an impressive demonstration of operational capability and endurance, the PAF JF-17 fighters accomplished a non-stop flight from Pakistan to Azerbaijan. The mission included precise mid-air refuelling operations carried out by the PAF’s own IL-78 aerial refuelling tanker, marking a significant milestone in the force’s long-range operational readiness.
According to ISPR, the flawless air-to-air refuelling manoeuvre reaffirmed PAF’s ability to project power over extended ranges and demonstrated the professional excellence and preparedness of its air and ground crews for complex international missions.
Exercise Indus Shield Alpha aims to strengthen tactical coordination, mutual understanding and interoperability between the Pakistan Air Force and the Azerbaijan Air Force. The drills will focus on modern aerial warfare tactics, advanced mission planning and combat execution strategies designed to reflect the evolving landscape of airpower and technology.
The exercise will also provide a crucial platform for both countries to share operational insights, develop joint strategies and refine their responses to contemporary aerial defence challenges.
PAF’s participation underscores Pakistan’s commitment to enhancing regional security and military cooperation with friendly nations. The deployment of JF-17 Block-III aircraft — the latest variant of Pakistan’s indigenous multirole fighter jet — highlights the growing sophistication and self-reliance of the country’s aerospace capabilities.
The ISPR statement emphasised that such international collaborations not only enhance combat experience but also reinforce PAF’s resolve to stay at the forefront of modern warfare, maintaining excellence across all domains of air operations.
