Azerbaijan officially received JF-17C (Block-III) multirole fighter jets at Heydar Aliyev International Airport on Wednesday, during a ceremony attended by President Ilham Aliyev, according to the Azerbaijani Ministry of Defence.
These advanced aircraft, capable of all-weather operations, are designed for both day and night missions, significantly boosting Azerbaijan’s aerial defense capabilities.
The jets were developed through a long-term collaboration between Pakistan Aeronautical Complex in Kamra and China’s Chengdu Aircraft Industry Corporation.
At the ceremony, Air Vice Marshal Hakim Raza, Chairman of the Pakistan Aeronautical Complex Board, provided details about the jets’ tactical capabilities, operational guidelines, and performance metrics.
Renowned for their air-to-air and air-to-ground combat abilities, the JF-17C (Block-III) jets are highly maneuverable, especially at medium and low altitudes, making them a valuable addition to Azerbaijan’s Air Force.
Earlier this year, reports from non-mainstream defense publications in Azerbaijan and Pakistan suggested that the acquisition of these jets was part of a $1.6 billion defense deal between the two nations, though neither country has officially confirmed the value or number of jets purchased.
The delivery of the jets follows President Aliyev’s recent visit to Pakistan, aimed at deepening bilateral relations and expanding military cooperation. During his visit, the Pakistan Air Force provided an air escort for Aliyev’s plane using JF-17s as it entered Pakistani airspace.
Aliyev’s discussions with Pakistani leadership focused on strengthening economic and military ties, reflecting a growing strategic partnership between the two nations in the context of shifting geopolitical dynamics.
This deal not only highlights Azerbaijan’s commitment to modernizing its military but also strengthens Pakistan’s role in the global defense market, showcasing its capabilities in defense exports.
Commentators note that the deal extends beyond immediate military benefits, setting the stage for future collaborations in defense technology and strategy between the two allies.
Pakistan, along with Türkiye, has been a staunch supporter of Azerbaijan, particularly during the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. Pakistan remains the only country that does not recognize Armenia, which had occupied Azerbaijani territory for years.
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