Baku – October 20, 2025
A Pakistan Air Force (PAF) contingent comprising the advanced JF-17 Thunder Block-III fighter jets has landed in Azerbaijan to participate in Exercise Indus Shield Alpha, a bilateral aerial combat exercise aimed at enhancing operational coordination and tactical interoperability between the two nations’ air forces.
According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the deployment marks another milestone in Pakistan’s efforts to strengthen defence diplomacy and showcase its cutting-edge air combat capabilities on the global stage.
Five Pakistan Air Force JF-17 Thunder Block III fighter jets flew non-stop from PAF Base Kamra in Punjab, Pakistan to Baku, Azerbaijan three days ago in a 2,600 kilometre non-stop journey aided by PAF aerial refuelling aircraft: pic.twitter.com/BeffPbYRtA
— The STRATCOM Bureau (@OSPSF) October 19, 2025
In a striking demonstration of endurance and airpower, the PAF fighters flew non-stop from Pakistan to Azerbaijan, conducting mid-air refuelling using the PAF’s IL-78 aerial tanker. This complex operation highlighted the long-range capabilities of the JF-17 Block-III and the professional excellence of PAF’s flight and ground crews.
The joint exercise will focus on modern aerial warfare tactics, mission planning, and real-time execution, providing both air forces with critical experience in contemporary threat environments shaped by rapidly evolving airpower technologies.
“Exercise Indus Shield Alpha will serve as a vital platform for sharing operational knowledge and enhancing collaborative readiness against emerging aerial threats,” the ISPR noted.
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The participation underscores PAF’s commitment to regional stability, military cooperation, and adaptability in modern warfare. It also reflects Pakistan’s growing stature in international air exercises, following a series of high-profile engagements including the Royal International Air Tattoo 2025, where the JF-17 Block-III won the Spirit of the Meet Trophy.
Last year, PAF hosted Indus Shield 2024, the largest multinational air exercise in the region, further cementing its role in promoting global air force interoperability and joint preparedness.
