Correct Answer:
A. Azerbaijan
The correct answer is Azerbaijan. In a landmark defense deal, Azerbaijan became the latest export customer of the Pakistan Aeronautical Complex by signing an agreement to acquire 40 JF-17 Block-III multirole fighter jets in early 2025.
The JF-17 Deal with Azerbaijan
- Contract Details: The deal, reportedly worth approximately $1.6 billion, was finalized during high-level visits between Azerbaijani and Pakistani defense officials. It includes not only aircraft but also training, logistics, and weapon packages.
- JF-17 Thunder Block-III: The aircraft is an advanced variant jointly developed by Pakistan and China, featuring an AESA radar, upgraded avionics, a helmet-mounted display, and beyond-visual-range missile capability. It is a highly cost-effective modern combat platform.
- Strategic Implications: This agreement marks Pakistan's largest single export order for military aircraft and significantly strengthens the defense relationship between the two countries. It also gives Azerbaijan a modern air combat capability amid regional tensions.
- Why Not the Others?: Turkey is developing its own fifth-generation fighter (KAAN) and is not an import customer for JF-17. Qatar operates advanced Western jets like the Rafale and F-15, and Egypt has a diversified fleet but has not purchased JF-17s from Pakistan. Azerbaijan is the confirmed buyer in 2025.
Hence, the country that signed a deal to purchase 40 JF-17s from Pakistan in 2025 is Azerbaijan.