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Qabil Ashirov

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2024 marked a significant turning point in Azerbaijani-Pakistani relations, particularly in the military sector, as both nations worked to deepen and diversify their strategic ties. Positioned in a geopolitically tense region, Azerbaijan faces the constant challenge of fortifying its defense capabilities. While the Azerbaijani government has made substantial strides in building a resilient military capable of overcoming regional threats, experts agree that further advancements are crucial. In this context, Pakistan’s defense technologies, including its missile systems and technological expertise, have become indispensable to Azerbaijan’s military modernization efforts.

Historically, Pakistan was not one of the top exporters of military hardware to Azerbaijan. However, in 2024, Pakistan made a major leap in its defense cooperation with Azerbaijan by supplying the JF-17 Thunder, a multi-role combat aircraft co-developed by Pakistan and China. The addition of the JF-17 to Azerbaijan’s arsenal has not only elevated Pakistan’s position as a top military exporter to Azerbaijan but also provided Azerbaijan with a formidable edge in the region, placing it ahead of most neighboring countries, with the exception of Russia. With its advanced defense industry, Pakistan is poised to play an increasingly important role in enhancing Azerbaijan’s military capabilities across a variety of fields.

Raza Syed, editor of the London Post, spoke to Azernews about the growing partnership between Azerbaijan and Pakistan, noting that the two countries share a strong and multifaceted military relationship, grounded in mutual strategic interests, historical ties, and similar geopolitical concerns. Syed emphasized that this partnership has been reinforced through brotherly support on critical issues, such as Pakistan’s backing of Azerbaijan during the Garabagh conflict.

“Azerbaijan and Pakistan’s defense cooperation has expanded considerably over the years, encompassing arms sales, joint training, technology transfers, and collaborative military exercises,” Syed explained. “This cooperation has been driven by Azerbaijan’s imperative to modernize its military capabilities and Pakistan’s desire to strengthen its defense exports and regional influence.”

A central aspect of this burgeoning military alliance is Azerbaijan’s recent acquisition of the JF-17 Thunder. This state-of-the-art, cost-effective aircraft has significantly upgraded Azerbaijan’s air force. Equipped with advanced avionics, beyond-visual-range missiles, and precision strike capabilities, the JF-17 gives Azerbaijan a strategic advantage in the South Caucasus, particularly in the face of potential threats from regional powers like Iran and Türkiye. By replacing aging Soviet-era aircraft, Azerbaijan has enhanced its ability to operate within modern warfare technologies, bolstering its deterrence capabilities in the region.

“The JF-17 is a game changer for Azerbaijan, both in terms of its offensive and defensive capabilities,” Syed noted. “The aircraft has significantly boosted Azerbaijan’s air defense operations, enabling the country to achieve greater interoperability with modern warfare technologies.”

In addition to equipping Azerbaijan with advanced aircraft, Pakistan has also contributed to strengthening the operational proficiency of Azerbaijani pilots through intensive training programs. The Pakistan Air Force, with its extensive combat experience, has provided Azerbaijani pilots with expertise in modern combat tactics, avionics, and operational strategies.

“Through this collaboration, Azerbaijani pilots have become better equipped to operate advanced platforms like the JF-17, which in turn has improved Azerbaijan’s overall combat readiness,” Syed said. “This partnership also enhances regional security by fostering knowledge transfer and interoperability between the two air forces.”

Beyond the JF-17, Pakistan offers a variety of advanced defense systems that further bolster Azerbaijan’s military capabilities. These include the Al-Khalid main battle tank, renowned for its fire control systems and mobility, as well as unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) such as the Burraq and Shahpar, which significantly enhance Azerbaijan’s surveillance and precision strike capabilities. Additionally, Pakistan’s missile systems—including the Babur cruise missile and the Nasr short-range ballistic missile—could further fortify Azerbaijan’s strategic deterrence.

“Joint ventures in defense production and technology sharing between the two countries could deepen this relationship, providing Azerbaijan with cutting-edge military solutions that are tailored to its specific defense needs,” Syed suggested.

The growing Azerbaijani-Pakistani military partnership is not only a strategic alliance that benefits both nations, but it also represents a significant shift in the balance of power within the region. As Azerbaijan continues to enhance its military capabilities, the partnership with Pakistan will play a critical role in solidifying Azerbaijan’s position as a formidable military power. Meanwhile, Pakistan’s role as a reliable defense partner will continue to strengthen its regional influence.

In conclusion, the JF-17 deal and the training programs for Azerbaijani pilots are just the beginning of a broader defense collaboration between the two countries. As both nations work to deepen their military ties, the future of their partnership holds significant promise for enhancing Azerbaijan’s military capabilities and reinforcing Pakistan’s position as a trusted partner in the South Caucasus region. This growing relationship will not only reshape Azerbaijan’s defense landscape but also contribute to the region’s broader security dynamics.