The JF 17 Sale to Azerbaijan has resulted in the successful integration of Block III fighter jets into its air force, following a substantial $1.6 billion deal with Pakistan. This strategic acquisition was officially unveiled during a ceremony at Heydar Aliyev International Airport, attended by President Ilham Aliyev and Defence Minister Zakir Hasanov.
At the event, which coincided with the Azerbaijan International Defence Exhibition 2024 in Baku, Air vice Marshal Hakim Raza, the Chairman of the Pakistan Aeronautical Complex Board, provided an in-depth briefing to President Ilham Aliyev. The briefing highlighted the advanced tactical and technical specifications, operational guidelines, and key performance indicators of the JF-17 Block III fighter jets.
In a symbolic moment, President Ilham Aliyev was photographed sitting inside a JF-17C Block III fighter jet, further emphasizing the importance of this acquisition. During the ceremony, attendees witnessed an impressive aerial demonstration showcasing the agility and maneuverability of the JF-17 fighter jets, further solidifying their value in modern air combat scenarios.
The Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR) released a statement confirming that a contract for the sale of JF-17 Block III fighter aircraft to Azerbaijan was finalized recently. With this purchase, Azerbaijan becomes the third country to acquire JF-17 fighters from Pakistan, following Myanmar and Nigeria. Reports indicate that Iraq is also considering the possibility of purchasing JF-17s from Pakistan, further expanding the aircraft’s international reach.
The agreement was reportedly signed during discussions in February of this year, and President Aliyev was briefed on the JF-17’s combat capabilities and versatile operational options during his visit to Islamabad in July. He acknowledged the significance of the deal, stating it would greatly enhance military cooperation between Pakistan and Azerbaijan while fostering closer defense collaboration.
Azerbaijani media reports suggest that the $1.6 billion agreement encompasses not just the fighter jets but also armament and training for the Azerbaijani Air Force. The JF-17 Block III, developed by the Pakistan Aeronautical Complex in partnership with China’s Chengdu Aircraft Industry Group, features cutting-edge avionics, including an Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar and advanced long-range missile capabilities.
As a lightweight, single-engine fighter jet, the JF-17 is adept at both air-to-air and air-to-ground operations, recognized for its exceptional maneuverability at medium and low altitudes. This deal marks a significant milestone in Azerbaijan’s defense modernization efforts and highlights the growing defense ties between Azerbaijan and Pakistan.
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