Azerbaijan shows off newly inducted JF-17 Thunder fighters PHOTO

The Azerbaijani Air Force has unveiled the appearance of its recently inducted JF-17 Thunder (Block III) fighter jets for the first time during training flights conducted by its aviation units.

As Caliber.Az reports, citing photos and videos released by Azerbaijan's Ministry of Defence, the aircraft feature a two-tone camouflage scheme combining light and dark shades of gray.

The fighters are painted with standard full-color national insignia rather than low-visibility black-and-white markings. Azerbaijan's national flag is also displayed in full color on the aircraft's vertical tail.

The footage released by the ministry shows two JF-17 Thunder fighters carrying the tactical numbers 24-501 and 24-502.

The aircraft also feature several distinctive visual elements, including a zigzag lightning bolt painted beneath the cockpit, the signature of National Leader Heydar Aliyev on the left side of the fuselage behind the cockpit, and an illustration of a jaguar's head accompanied by the inscription "Jaguar" on the vertical tail.

The fighter jets were seen flying without missile armament but carrying three large external fuel tanks mounted on the centerline and underwing pylons.

The Azerbaijani Air Force's JF-17 Thunder fleet is equipped with an in-flight refueling system featuring a fixed refueling probe, extending the aircraft's operational range and endurance.

The JF-17 Thunder (Block III) is currently the most advanced combat aircraft in service with the Azerbaijani Air Force and represents a significant enhancement of the country's air defence capabilities, helping safeguard Azerbaijan's airspace.

By Vafa Guliyeva