Pakistan has reportedly finalized a landmark defense export agreement to supply 40 JF-17 Block III fighter jets to Azerbaijan.
According to media reports Pakistan defense authority has taken a significant step forward in enhancing military cooperation and regional partnership with both Azerbaijan and Turkey. In this regard Pakistan has reportedly signed a deal to supply 40 JF-17 Block III fighter jets to Azerbaijan.
The contract is estimated to be valued between $1.6 billion and $4.2 billion, making it one of Pakistan’s most substantial defense deals to date. The JF-17 Block III, co-developed by Pakistan and China, represents the latest and most advanced version of the JF-17 Thunder fighter aircraft.
Equipped with cutting-edge avionics, an AESA (Active Electronically Scanned Array) radar, and compatibility with long-range air-to-air missiles such as the PL-15 and PL-10, the Block III offers significant technological upgrades.
Azerbaijan also has the option to integrate Turkish-made Gökdoğan and Bozdoğan missiles, reflecting deepening trilateral defense collaboration among the three nations.
This procurement is part of Azerbaijan’s broader initiative to overhaul its air force, moving away from outdated Russian-made aircraft, especially in response to the evolving security dynamics of the South Caucasus region.
The deal follows the positive reception of the JF-17 aircraft during the ADEX-2024 Defense Exhibition in Baku, where Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev lauded Pakistan’s technical support. Delivery of the jets will be carried out in phases, along with provisions for pilot training and aircraft maintenance services.
