IRIA News

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In a major step towards strengthening its defense ties with Azerbaijan, Pakistan finalized a contract to supply JF-17 Block III fighter jets to Baku, according to an announcement made by the Pakistani military on September 26, 2024. The deal comes as Islamabad continues to forge new military partnerships amid shifting global alliances.

In a statement, Pakistan military’s media wing, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), it was revealed that during a recent visit to Pakistan, Azerbaijan’s President, Ilham Aliyev, was briefed on the combat capabilities and multiple deployment options of the JF-17 Thunder Block-III fighter jet.

Following President Aliyev’s visit, and at the request of the Azerbaijani government, Pakistan deployed a PAF contingent to Baku to take part in ADEX-2024. This defense exhibition featured both a static display of the JF-17 Block-III and aerial demonstrations, highlighting Pakistan’s advanced aviation technology.

Pakistan’s JF-17 fighter jet successfully conducted air-to-air refueling from a Pakistan Air Force (PAF) Multi Role Tanker Transport (MRTT) aircraft, completing a non-stop flight to Baku, Azerbaijan. This operation showcased the long-range capability and extended reach of the JF-17, underlining the operational versatility of the PAF’s fighter aircraft.

“President Ilham Aliyev visited the static display of JF-17 Block-III and later witnessed an enthralling aerial demonstration of JF-17 Thunder, showcasing the agility and maneuverability of the fighter jet alongside the professional competence of PAF pilots,” the ISPR statement added.

While the precise details of the contract, including the number of jets and the overall cost, have not been disclosed, the sale marks a significant development in defense relations between Pakistan and Azerbaijan. According to the statement released by Pakistan’s military, the deal underscores the country’s commitment to enhancing the air power capabilities of Azerbaijan, further strengthening the defense ties between the two nations.

Strengthening military ties with Azerbaijan

This sale is the latest development in an ongoing series of defense engagements between Pakistan and Azerbaijan, both of which have sought to deepen their military cooperation in recent years. The growing relationship was underscored in July when Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev made a state visit to Pakistan. During this visit, the two countries agreed to expand collaboration across several key areas, including defense.

Pakistan’s JF-17 aircraft has become an attractive option for several countries that are seeking affordable yet capable multi-role combat aircraft. The Block III variant of the JF-17 is particularly notable for its advanced avionics, enhanced radar systems, and superior combat capabilities, making it a competitive option for nations looking to modernize their air forces without the high costs associated with Western-made fighter jets.

JF-17 Thunder development

Pakistan began developing its indigenous fighter jet in 2003 as part of the Pakistan Air Force’s modernization program. JF-17 Thunder was developed through collaboration between Pakistan’s largest defense and aerospace firm Pakistan Aeronautical Complex (PAC) and Chengdu Aircraft Corporation (CAC) of China. The first JF-17 Thunder aircraft was handed over to Pakistan Air Force in November 2009.

The aircraft has performed in air shows in China, Dubai, England, France, Qatar, Bahrain, and Saudi Arabia. It was also a main contribution from Pakistan during the Turkish Centennial Celebrations in 2023. The aircraft has also participated in the Shaheen exercises between Pakistan and China, Anatolian Eagle Turkey, Spears of Victory KS, and the Bright Star exercise in Egypt.

Apart from the Pakistan Air Force, the JF-17 Thunder jet is used by Myanmar and Nigeria. Several countries including Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Sri Lanka have also shown interest in acquiring the fighter jet.

According to the maker, the fighter jet possesses excellent air-to-air and air-to-surface combat capabilities. It is equipped with state-of-the-art avionics, Active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar, integrated electronic warfare (EW) and a self-protection suite, computerized flight controls, and the capability to employ the latest weapons, providing a decisive advantage to JF-17 over adversaries of the same class.

In December 2020, PAC announced the production of JF-17 Thunder Block III, which Baku would purchase. The dual-seat JF-17 Block III aircraft are considered 4.5 generation jets due to their multirole fighter capabilities.

JF-17 Specifications

The all-weather, multi-role light combat fighter has remarkably high combat maneuverability at medium and low altitudes. With effective firepower, agility, and combat survivability, the aircraft is likely to emerge as a potent platform for any air force.

• The JF-17 Thunder features a length of approximately 47 feet and a wingspan of about 31 feet.
• Powered by a single RD-93 turbofan engine, it can achieve a maximum speed of Mach 1.6 and has a combat radius exceeding 1,350 kilometers.
• The jet has a maximum takeoff weight of 13500 kilograms and a service ceiling of 55,500 feet.
• The aircraft is armed with a variety of air-to-air and air-to-ground missiles, including beyond-visual-range (BVR) capabilities, making it a formidable asset in aerial combat and ground attack missions.