Azerbaijan JF 17 Deal Boosts Defense Ties With Pakistan
This landmark deal signifies a major expansion of Azerbaijan's air force, leveraging Pakistan's defense technology to bolster its military capabilities, while also fostering deeper trilateral cooperation with Turkey, reflecting a strategic alignment in regional defense interests.
Azerbaijan has finalized a major defense export agreement with Pakistan, purchasing 40 JF-17 Thunder fighter jets in a deal valued between $1.6 billion and $4.2 billion, significantly upgrading its air force capabilities with the latest Block III variant.
The JF-17 Block III variant features advanced avionics, AESA radar, and compatibility with long-range air-to-air missiles, providing Azerbaijan with a significant boost to its air force. The deal also reflects growing defense ties among Pakistan, Azerbaijan, and Turkey, with Azerbaijan potentially integrating Turkish missiles into the aircraft. This cooperation marks a strategic shift for Azerbaijan, aiming to modernize its air force and reduce its reliance on aging Russian aircraft.
The agreement includes the delivery of the first batch of jets in phases, along with comprehensive training and support for Azerbaijani personnel. Notably, Azerbaijan has expanded its initial order from 16 to 40 units, signing a $4.6 billion defense deal that makes it the largest export customer for the JF-17 Thunder series, surpassing other countries like Nigeria and Myanmar. The deal encompasses a $2 billion investment package and the procurement of 40 JF-17 Block III aircraft, highlighting the deepening trilateral defense cooperation between Pakistan, Turkey, and Azerbaijan.
The successful negotiation and signing of this defense agreement underscore the strengthening relationship between Pakistan and Azerbaijan, with both nations committed to enhancing their defense capabilities through mutual cooperation and technological advancements. Azerbaijan President Ilham Aliyev's praise for the JF-17 Thunder's capabilities and his support for Pakistan's technological achievements further solidify this partnership, marking a significant milestone for Pakistan's defense industry and its role in regional defense collaborations.