A contingent of the Pakistan Air Force (PAF), comprising the advanced JF-17 Thunder Block-III fighter jets along with a team of experienced air and ground crew, has landed in Azerbaijan to take part in the bilateral aerial combat exercise titled Indus Shield Alpha, according to a statement issued by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).

The PAF fighter jets completed a non-stop journey from their home base in Pakistan to Azerbaijan, successfully executing mid-air refuelling operations en route. The complex aerial refuelling mission was carried out with the support of the PAF’s IL-78 aerial tanker and demonstrated the endurance and long-range strike capabilities of the JF-17 Block-III.

“The intricate mid-air refuelling operation, executed with utmost precision by PAF’s own IL-78 aerial tanker, reaffirmed the long-range capability of PAF fighter jets and showcased the professional excellence and preparedness of PAF aircrew to undertake extended international deployments,” the ISPR stated.

Exercise Indus Shield Alpha has been designed to deepen operational cooperation between the two allied air forces. It aims to enhance mutual understanding, improve tactical coordination, and build interoperability in a modern combat environment shaped by evolving technological and strategic realities.

“Exercise Indus Shield Alpha aims to enhance mutual understanding, tactical coordination and interoperability between the two brotherly Air Forces,” the statement added. “The exercise will focus on modern aerial warfare tactics, joint mission planning and execution in an environment shaped by rapid technological advancements and evolving airpower dynamics.”

The exercise also provides a vital platform for the exchange of operational knowledge and joint responses to new aerial defence challenges. The collaboration reflects growing defence ties between Pakistan and Azerbaijan, underpinned by shared strategic goals.

“The participation of Pakistan Air Force contingent in Exercise Indus Shield Alpha reaffirms PAF’s enduring commitment to regional stability and global military cooperation,” ISPR emphasised. “It also demonstrates PAF’s unwavering resolve to continuously evolve and adapt to the demands of contemporary warfare, while maintaining its tradition of excellence in every domain of air operations.”

The deployment is another demonstration of PAF’s expanding international engagement, underlining its role as a capable and adaptive force in modern airpower.