PAF conducts non-stop flight to Azerbaijan, conducts precise in-flight refueling operations
Pakistan Air Force (PAF) contingent, with the advanced JF-17 Thunder Block-III fighter jets along with skilled air and ground crews, has arrived in Azerbaijan to participate in the bilateral air combat exercise Indus Shield Alpha.
The PAF aircraft conducted a non-stop flight from Pakistan to Azerbaijan and performed precise in-flight refueling operations. The complex mid-air refueling, carried out by the PAF’s own IL-78 air tanker, “confirmed the long-range capability of the PAF combat aircraft” and underlined the “professional expertise and readiness of the PAF aircrew” for extended international missions, according to an ISPR statement.
According to the air force, Exercise Indus Shield Alpha aims to improve mutual understanding, tactical coordination and interoperability between the two “fraternal air forces.” The exercises will focus on modern air warfare tactics, joint mission planning and operational execution in an environment shaped by rapid technological change and evolving air power dynamics.
The PAF said the exercise will also serve as “a vital platform to exchange operational insights and strengthen cooperative responses to emerging air defense challenges.”
Participation in Indus Shield Alpha, the PAF added, reflects its “enduring commitment to regional stability and global military cooperation”, as well as its willingness to “continually evolve and adapt to the demands of modern warfare” while maintaining a tradition of excellence across all areas of air operations.
