ISLAMABAD: A contingent of the Pakistan Air Force (PAF), including the latest JF-17 Thunder Block-III fighter jets, has landed in Azerbaijan to take part in a high-profile bilateral air combat exercise titled Indus Shield Alpha, the military's media wing said on Sunday.
According to Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the deployment marks another significant step in Pakistan's efforts to enhance military cooperation and strategic ties with partner nations through advanced joint training exercises.
The PAF fighter jets accomplished a non-stop flight from Pakistan to Azerbaijan, showcasing their endurance and advanced capabilities through a mid-air refuelling operation carried out with precision by PAF’s IL-78 aerial tanker.
“This intricate refuelling manoeuvre reaffirmed the long-range operational capability of the JF-17 Block-III and highlighted the PAF crew's readiness for extended international missions,” the ISPR said in its statement.
The Indus Shield Alpha exercise is aimed at boosting mutual understanding, improving tactical coordination, and strengthening interoperability between the air forces of Pakistan and Azerbaijan. It will involve training in modern aerial warfare tactics, joint mission planning, and combat execution under scenarios influenced by evolving technology and contemporary airpower dynamics.
“This bilateral engagement serves as a key platform to exchange operational insights and develop joint responses to emerging aerial defence challenges,” the statement added.
The PAF’s participation also underscores its commitment to regional stability, global defence cooperation, and continuous adaptation to modern warfare demands. It reflects Pakistan’s growing aerial capabilities and the strategic reach of its air force in international defence diplomacy.
PAF has a strong tradition of excellence in multinational exercises. Earlier in July, PAF aircraft won top honours at the Royal International Air Tattoo (RIAT) 2025 in the UK. The JF-17 Block-III earned the “Spirit of the Meet Trophy” for its standout livery and remarkable non-stop journey with in-flight refuelling, while the C-130H Hercules won the “Concours d’Elegance Trophy.”
Last year, Pakistan hosted Exercise Indus Shield-2024, the largest regional air exercise, featuring participants from 24 countries. That edition showcased the PAF’s multi-domain warfighting capabilities and brought together global air forces to foster interoperability and collaboration.
With its presence in Azerbaijan for Indus Shield Alpha, the PAF continues to reinforce its image as a technologically advanced, operationally ready, and globally engaged air force.
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