In a significant development in the region's military landscape, Azerbaijan has officially inducted the JF-17 Block III fighter jets into its air force, marking a major milestone in the country's efforts to modernize its military capabilities.
The Deal and Induction
Azerbaijan and Pakistan finalized a $1.6 billion deal in February 2024 for the purchase of JF-17 Block III fighter jets, along with associated weaponry and training packages.
On September 25, 2024, Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev inspected the newly acquired JF-17C Block III aircraft at Heydar Aliyev International Airport in Baku. The ceremony was attended by Azerbaijan's Defence Minister, Colonel General Zakir Hasanov, and senior Pakistani military officials, including the Chairman of the Pakistan Aeronautical Complex Board, Air Vice Marshal Hakim Raza.
Details of the Acquisition
The deal includes the delivery of eight JF-17 Block III fighter jets in the initial tranche, with an option for a follow-on order of another eight aircraft. This acquisition is part of Azerbaijan's broader strategy to diversify its defense suppliers, moving away from its traditional reliance on Russia and strengthening ties with countries like Pakistan and Turkey.
Capabilities of the JF-17 Block III
The JF-17 Block III, developed jointly by Pakistan and China, is a multirole fighter jet known for its advanced features. These include an integrated electronic warfare (EW) suite, a Wide Angle Smart Head-Up Display (HUD), additional hard points, and Missile Approach Warning Systems (MAWS). The aircraft is capable of air-to-air and air-to-ground combat and boasts high maneuverability at medium and low altitudes.
Strategic Implications
The induction of these fighter jets is particularly significant given the ongoing tensions between Azerbaijan and its neighbor, Armenia. Azerbaijan's move to enhance its air force capabilities comes as Armenia is also bolstering its defense ties with India, including the procurement of Indian missiles and the upgrade of its Su-30 fighter aircraft fleet.
Azerbaijan's acquisition of the JF-17s is seen as a strategic move to augment its combat readiness, especially after its involvement in the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. The country is now part of a distinct alliance that includes Turkey and Pakistan, while Armenia is aligned with India and France.
Historical Context and Future Prospects
Pakistan has been a strong supporter of Azerbaijan since its independence in 1991 and has maintained close defense ties with the country. This deal marks the fourth foreign sale of the JF-17 Block III, following previous exports to Myanmar, Nigeria, and potential sales to Iraq.
The success of the JF-17 export also highlights Pakistan's growing influence in the global defense market, particularly as India continues to seek buyers for its Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas, with ongoing talks but no successful exports yet.
In conclusion, Azerbaijan's induction of the JF-17 Block III fighter jets from Pakistan represents a significant enhancement of its military capabilities and underscores the deepening defense cooperation between Azerbaijan, Pakistan, and Turkey. This development is set to have profound implications for the regional balance of power in the South Caucasus.
