ISLAMABAD: A Pakistan Air Force (PAF) contingent has arrived in Azerbaijan to participate in a bilateral aerial combat exercise named “Indus Shield Alpha,” the military’s media wing said on Sunday, with the exercise set to focus on modern aerial warfare tactics.
The Pakistan contingent comprises JF-17 Thunder Block-III fighter jets accompanied by skilled air and ground crew, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the Pakistani military’s media wing, said in a statement.
The PAF fighters arrived via a non-stop flight from their home base in Pakistan to Azerbaijan, the ISPR said, executing a “flawless in-flight air-to-air refueling operation.” The air-refueling was carried out with the PAF’s IL-79 aerial tanker, the military said, reaffirming the fighter jets’ long-range capability.
“Exercise Indus Shield Alpha aims to enhance mutual understanding, tactical coordination and interoperability between the two brotherly Air Forces,” the ISPR said.
“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.”
