Minister: Azerbaijan to receive first batch of JF-17 Thunder fighter jets from Pakistan

Pakistan's Minister of Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar has said that Azerbaijan is set to receive its first batch of JF-17 Thunder fighter jets from Pakistan.

The delivery will strengthen defence relations between the two nations, with potential for joint production in the future, Caliber.Az reports via local media.

"Azerbaijan will soon receive the first batch of JF-17 Thunder fighter jets from Pakistan, and there is a possibility of joint production in the future," Tarar stated.

The news follows a significant meeting between Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev on February 24, during the Pakistan-Azerbaijan business forum in Baku.

Sharif stressed the importance of deepening defence cooperation between the two countries, highlighting that it is time to take their strategic defence relations to a higher level. 

"We must establish joint defence production capabilities, to which both sides are fully committed. When the Azerbaijani delegation visits Pakistan in April, this will be one of the priority items on the agenda," Sharif said, reaffirming Pakistan’s dedication to working closely with Azerbaijan on defence matters. 

The JF-17 fighter jets are a symbol of the growing cooperation between Pakistan and Azerbaijan. The JF-17C (Block III) model is a joint project developed by Pakistan's Aeronautical Complex and China’s Chengdu Aircraft Industry Group. These jets are now part of Azerbaijan’s Air Force arsenal, having been presented to Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev on September 25, 2024. 

Reports also reveal that the Azerbaijani Defence Ministry has signed a contract with Pakistan Aeronautical Complex worth $1.6 billion for the purchase of these advanced fighter jets. The agreement also includes the supply of ammunition and training for Azerbaijani pilots.

The JF-17C (Block III) is the latest iteration of this fighter aircraft, capable of carrying up to eight different types of missiles. It is equipped with advanced radar and electronic defence systems, reinforcing Azerbaijan’s defence capabilities as part of its growing military collaboration with Pakistan.

By Naila Huseynova