Azerbaijan has acquired JF-17 Block III multi-role fighter jets from Pakistan under a $1.6 billion contract, according to media reports on Friday.
The agreement, which also includes armament and training packages, was reportedly signed earlier this year. The deal was confirmed by the Pakistan Army, with Azerbaijani media suggesting the deal involved an undisclosed number of jets.
The JF-17 Block III, a joint venture between Pakistan Aeronautical Complex and China’s Chengdu Aircraft Industry Group, has already been inducted into Azerbaijan’s Air Force.
President Ilham Aliyev was officially presented with the fighter jets during a ceremony at Heydar Aliyev International Airport, held on the sidelines of the Azerbaijan International Defence Exhibition 2024.
In the presence of top officials, President Aliyev inspected the jets and was briefed on their advanced tactical and technical capabilities, including their Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar and long-range missile systems.
He also witnessed an aerial demonstration of the aircraft, which showcased its agility and manoeuvrability at both medium and low altitudes.
Aliyev had earlier visited Islamabad in July, where he was briefed on the fighter jet's combat features. Expressing his appreciation, Aliyev hailed the deal, noting, "This agreement will go a long way in consolidating the existing military cooperation between Pakistan and Azerbaijan, fostering closer defence collaboration."
Azerbaijan becomes the third country to acquire JF-17 jets, following Myanmar and Nigeria. Reports indicate that Iraq is also considering procuring the aircraft in the near future.
The JF-17 Block III is designed for both air-to-air and air-to-ground operations, making it a versatile platform for Azerbaijan’s evolving defence needs.
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