Azerbaijan has officially begun inducting the JF-17 Thunder Block III multirole fighter aircraft from Pakistan, marking the largest defense export deal in Pakistan’s history and initiating a significant modernization of Baku’s air force. The first batch of these 4.5-generation fighters was showcased on November 8, 2025, during the nation’s Victory Day parade in a clear declaration of enhanced military capability to the region.
Transformative $4.6 Billion Agreement
The acquisition is part of an expanded $4.6 billion umbrella contract covering up to 40 JF-17 Block III aircraft, along with a comprehensive package of air-to-air and air-to-ground munitions, pilot training, and long-term logistics support. This massive deal establishes Azerbaijan as the principal overseas customer for the Sino-Pakistani co-developed fighter. The first delivered aircraft included both single-seat JF-17C fighters and twin-seat trainer variants.
The induction replaces Azerbaijan’s aging fleet of Soviet-era jets, positioning the nation’s air power at the forefront of the South Caucasus region.
Advanced Capability Boost
The JF-17 Block III variant is a considerable force multiplier, featuring several critical upgrades over previous models:
- AESA Radar: The aircraft is equipped with the advanced KLJ-7A Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar, which offers superior situational awareness, multi-target tracking, and high resistance to electronic jamming.
- BVR Missile Integration: The platform is compatible with modern, long-range weapons, including the PL-15E Beyond Visual Range (BVR) missile, providing pilots with a decisive edge in long-range engagements.
- Avionics: Upgraded avionics, a new wide-area cockpit display, and a helmet-mounted cueing system significantly improve the pilot-vehicle interface.
The successful delivery follows recent joint military exercises, such as “Indus Shield Alpha,” which aimed to enhance interoperability between the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) and the Azerbaijani Air Force (AzAF).
Geopolitical Ramifications
The JF-17 procurement underscores the deepening strategic defense alliance between Azerbaijan, Pakistan, and Türkiye. The move is expected to heighten tensions in the South Caucasus, compelling Azerbaijan’s rival, Armenia, to urgently reassess its defense posture and procurement strategies, which are increasingly focused on deepening ties with India.
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Aleda Kawis is the Professional Journalist and serving in the field since 2012. She keeps extensive experience as investigating journalist and media influencer.
