An Eastern European country – Azerbaijan – has officially inducted Pakistan’s JF-17 Thunder fighter jets into its air force fleet, confirmed by the office of the President of Azerbaijan, marking a historic moment for Pakistan’s defense exports.
During the Victory Day parade on November 8, four single-seat and one twin-seat JF-17 Thunder aircraft were seen flying over the capital, Baku, symbolizing Azerbaijan’s growing military partnership with Pakistan.
Follow the Times of Karachi channel on WhatsApp
Observers noted that the aircraft carried no visible national markings during the aerial display. The backseat occupant of the lead twin-seat jet was identified as Colonel Novruz Tahirov of the Azerbaijan Air Force and Air Defence Force, according to official sources.
This induction follows a landmark defense deal earlier this year, in which Pakistan agreed to sell 40 JF-17 Thunder jets to Azerbaijan, expanding the initial order of 16 aircraft. The $4.6 billion contract is Pakistan’s largest-ever defense export agreement.
Visit Times of Karachi website for the latest news-related content daily
Developed jointly by Pakistan Aeronautical Complex (PAC) and China’s Chengdu Aircraft Industry Corporation (CAC), the JF-17 Thunder is a fourth-generation multi-role combat aircraft known for its cost-effectiveness and modern operational capabilities.
Defense analysts believe the inclusion of JF-17 Thunder jets will significantly enhance Azerbaijan’s air defense strength and provide a technological edge in the South Caucasus region, potentially unsettling neighboring Armenia.
