PAF Contingent Reaches Azerbaijan for Bilateral Aerial Exercise ‘Indus Shield Alpha’

Islamabad: A contingent of the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) has arrived in Azerbaijan to participate in the high-profile bilateral aerial combat exercise “Indus Shield Alpha”, aimed at enhancing tactical coordination and operational synergy between the two brotherly air forces.

The PAF contingent includes state-of-the-art JF-17 Thunder Block-III fighter jets, supported by highly trained air and ground crew. The exercise seeks to deepen mutual understanding, strengthen interoperability, and refine joint aerial warfare tactics in light of evolving airpower dynamics.

In a striking demonstration of professional excellence, PAF fighter jets completed a non-stop flight from Pakistan to Azerbaijan, successfully performing air-to-air refueling operations midair using PAF’s own IL-78 aerial tanker. The operation underscored the long-range capability of PAF aircraft and their readiness for sustained international deployments.

According to PAF officials, “Indus Shield Alpha” will focus on modern aerial combat tactics, joint mission planning, and execution, providing an invaluable platform for sharing operational expertise and bolstering coordinated responses to emerging aerial defence challenges.

The participation of the Pakistan Air Force in this exercise reflects the deep-rooted strategic and defence partnership between Pakistan and Azerbaijan and reaffirms both nations’ commitment to regional stability and military cooperation.