PAF participates in Azerbaijan’s Indus Shield Alpha exercise

PAF completes non-stop flight to Azerbaijan, conducts precise in-flight refuelling operations

Pakistan Air Force (PAF) contingent, featuring the advanced JF-17 Thunder Block-III fighter jets along with skilled air and ground crew, has arrived in Azerbaijan to take part in the bilateral aerial combat exercise Indus Shield Alpha.

The PAF aircraft completed a non-stop flight from Pakistan to Azerbaijan, carrying out precise in-flight refuelling operations. The complex mid-air refuelling, conducted by the PAF’s own IL-78 aerial tanker, “reaffirmed the long-range capability of PAF fighter jets” and underscored “the professional excellence and preparedness of PAF aircrew” for extended international missions, according to a statement given by the ISPR.

According to the Air Force, Exercise Indus Shield Alpha aims to enhance mutual understanding, tactical coordination and interoperability between the two “brotherly Air Forces.” The drills will centre on modern aerial warfare tactics, joint mission planning and operational execution in an environment shaped by rapid technological change and evolving airpower dynamics.

The PAF said the exercise will also serve as “a vital platform to exchange operational insights and strengthen collaborative responses to emerging aerial defence challenges.”

Participation in Indus Shield Alpha, the PAF added, reflects its “enduring commitment to regional stability and global military cooperation,” as well as its resolve to “continuously evolve and adapt to the demands of contemporary warfare” while upholding a tradition of excellence across all domains of air operations.