The United States has approved a $686-million package for advanced support and upgrades to Pakistan’s F-16 fighter fleet. The proposed sale includes Link-16 data systems, cryptographic gear, avionics enhancements, training, and full logistical assistance. The details were reported by Dawn, citing a Defence Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) notification sent to the US Congress.
The package faces a 30-day review period and will undergo scrutiny from US lawmakers, while India closely monitors the developments.
According to the DSCA letter, the proposed sale is intended to modernise Pakistan’s F-16 fleet and address operational safety concerns. Lockheed Martin, the Texas-based F-16 manufacturer, has been named as principal contractor for the package.
The US defence agency’s letter emphasised that “implementation of this proposed sale will not require the assignment of any additional US government or contractor representatives to Pakistan” and that there will be “no adverse impact on US defence readiness as a result of this proposed sale.”
The justification behind the sale is “will support the foreign policy and national security objectives of the United States by allowing Pakistan to retain interoperability with US and partner forces in ongoing counterterrorism efforts and in preparation for future contingency operations,” the letter said.
This package will enable Pakistan to “maintain capability to meet current and future threats by updating and refurbishing its Block-52 and Mid Life Upgrade F-16 fleet,’ it said.
The Refurbishment Will Extend The Aircraft Life Till 2040
These upgradations will also provide more “seamless integration and interoperability between the Pakistan Air Force and the US Air Force in combat operations, exercises, and training, and refurbishment will extend the aircraft life through 2040 while addressing critical flight safety concerns,” the letter added.
The letter also stresses Pakistan’s preparedness to imbibe the technology, describing the country “having shown a commitment to maintaining its military forces and will have no difficulty absorbing these articles and services into its armed forces.”
The DSCA letter concluded that the package will support the foreign policy and national security purposes of the United States while enabling Pakistan to continue operating its F-16 fleet safely and effectively.
The US-Pak Deal
The total estimated value of the sale is $686 million, with major defence equipment valued at $37 million and other items at $649 million. The major defence equipment (MDE) component includes 92 Link-16 data link systems and six inert Mk-82 500 lb general-purpose bomb bodies without explosive payload to be used for weapons integration testing.
The deal valued about $683 million, including major defence gear valued about $37 million and other components of about $649 million. The sale will give Pakistan 92 Link-16 data link systems and 6 inert Mk-82 500 lb general-purpose bomb bodies.
Reports suggest Pakistan had requested upgradation to its F-16 fleet in 2021 amid strained relation, but Washington had delayed its response.
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