During his recent visit to Pakistan, H.E Mr Ilham Aliyev, President of Azerbaijan was hosted by Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu, Chief of the Air Staff, Pakistan Air Force, who briefed him on the combat capabilities and versatile employment options of JF-17 BLOCK-III fighter aircraft.
Pursuant to President Aliyev’s visit and on special request of Government of Azerbaijan, Chief of the Air Staff approved the deployment of PAF contingent at Baku to participate in ADEX-2024 showcasing the aerial prowess and static display of Pride of Pakistan JF-17 Thunder Block-III.
The PAF contingent comprising of operational and maintenance personnel was given a heartfelt welcome on arrival at Baku. During deployment, JF-17 carried out Air to Air Refuelling from PAF Multi Role Tanker Transport (MRTT) aircraft deploying in a single hop to Baku, Azerbaijan, demonstrating long haul capability and reach of the PAF’s fighter jet.
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.
JF-17 Thunder Block-III is an AESA Radar and Long Range BVR equipped 4.5 generation Multi-Role fighter aircraft which is capable of undertaking wide array of combat missions providing contemporary airpower employment options thus strengthening the National Security Paradigm of Azerbaijan.
President of Azerbaijan conveyed his heartfelt wishes and gratitude to Chief of the Air Staff, Pakistan Air Force for affording him the opportunity to witness the mesmerizing aerobatics display during Azerbaijan Defence Exhibition 2024.
He expressed that the support extended by Pakistan Air Force would go a long way in consolidating the existing military cooperation between Pakistan and Azerbaijan, fostering closer defence collaboration and strengthening the warm brotherly ties between the two nations.
The accomplishment also reflects the Vision of the Air Chief to transform PAF into a fully indigenized, Next Generation Air Force, contributing to regional security while affording the opportunity to strengthening international partnerships.
