Pakistan signs deal to sell JF-17 Fighter Jets to Azerbaijan

Pakistan’s military announced on Thursday that it has signed a contract to sell JF-17 Block III fighter jets to Azerbaijan.

The JF-17 aircraft is co-produced by Pakistan Aeronautical Complex and developed in partnership with China. Reuters reported that Pakistan has strengthened its ties with China in recent years as relations with its traditional ally, the United States, have weakened.

While the military did not disclose the cost or quantity of the jets, it stated that the sale is part of Pakistan’s effort to enhance defense cooperation with friendly nations and boost Azerbaijan’s air power capabilities.

Pakistan is also a close ally of Turkey, which supported Azerbaijan during its conflict with Armenia, resuming hostilities between the two countries in the South Caucasus last year.

In July, Azerbaijan’s President Ilham Aliyev visited Pakistan, where both countries agreed to enhance cooperation in various sectors, including defense.

Following Aliyev’s visit, Pakistan participated in an Azerbaijan defense exhibition, deploying an air force contingent in Baku to showcase the JF-17 fighter jets.

This arms deal marks a significant step in strengthening defence cooperation between Pakistan and Azerbaijan while demonstrating Pakistan’s increasing regional defence partnerships.

The sale reflects Pakistan’s broader strategy of expanding its defense exports and fostering closer military ties with strategic allies like China and Turkey.

The deal highlights Azerbaijan’s ongoing efforts to modernize its military capabilities following its conflict with Armenia. Strengthening its air power through acquisitions like the JF-17 Block III could be critical in shaping the region’s security dynamics.

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