Azerbaijani Air Force

The Azerbaijani Air Force (AzAF) is structurally integrated with the nation's Air and Air Defence Troops, reflecting a doctrine where control of the air and ground-based air defense are managed under a unified command. This structure has evolved from its Soviet origins towards a more flexible, Western-influenced model. The force is organized around a network of air bases hosting fighter, attack, transport, and helicopter squadrons.

Its strategic doctrine, codified in 2010, has been shaped by the objective of restoring territorial integrity. This has driven a pragmatic and investment-heavy approach to capability development, prioritizing asymmetric advantages and technological superiority over a potential adversary. The AzAF's operational concept emphasizes network-centric warfare, integrating unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), special operations forces, and conventional air assets. A diverse range of international partnerships, most notably with Turkey, Israel, and Pakistan, is fundamental to this doctrine, facilitating technology transfer, joint training, and the adoption of modern operational tactics.

The 2020 Nagorno-Karabakh war was a defining engagement for the AzAF. Its performance was characterized by the systematic and highly effective use of UAVs and loitering munitions. The conflict began with a deliberate campaign to suppress and destroy enemy air defense systems, using a combination of remotely-piloted An-2 biplanes as decoys and armed drones for strikes. This strategy quickly established air superiority, enabling UAVs to conduct widespread reconnaissance and precision attacks on ground forces, command posts, and logistics with decisive effect. The role of manned combat aircraft, such as the MiG-29 and Su-25, was comparatively limited, a tactical choice to mitigate risk and leverage the proven effectiveness of the unmanned fleet for the primary combat roles.

The centerpiece of current modernization is the acquisition of the Pakistan-made JF-17 Thunder Block III multirole fighter, a move that will replace aging Soviet-era jets and reduce dependency on Russian suppliers. This program includes advanced munitions, notably Turkish air-to-air missiles, enhancing interoperability. The existing Su-25 attack aircraft fleet is also undergoing upgrades with Turkish assistance, integrating modern avionics and guided weapons.