New Delhi: The US has greenlit a $686-million upgrade package for Pakistani F-16 fighter jets that will extend the life of Pakistani F-16s till 2040. The Trump administration has informed Congress about the deal, leading to a 30-day review and scrutiny by lawmakers.
The US Defence Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) said in a letter sent to the US Congress on 8 December that the US Air Force plans to issue a Letter of Offer and Acceptance to Pakistan for defence articles and services.
The move signals Washington’s intention to maintain Pakistan’s access to advanced Western aviation technology while simultaneously framing the upgrade as a counterterrorism and regional stability effort to ease concerns from neighbouring countries.
Pakistan’s Air Force depends heavily on its 70-80 F-16 aircraft, including Block-52 and Mid-Life Upgrade models. These form the core of its multirole combat capabilities. The F-16s have undergone a series of upgrades to stay relevant since the 1980s.
Comprehensive F-16 upgrade
The approved package includes advanced avionics, Link-16 tactical data links, cryptographic equipment, training, and full logistical support.
Of the total package, $649 million will be utilised for additional hardware, software, and support services, and the rest for Major Defence Equipment (MDE).
The MDE list includes 92 Link-16 systems, a secure digital network used by the US and allies to share real-time battlefield data, and six Mk-82 inert 500-pound bombs. These bombs are unguided training weapons used only for testing integration and release.
The move has sparked fresh concerns in India. Former foreign secretary Kanwal Sibal wrote on X, “While China has long armed Pakistan against India, the US is now doing the same. This was expected after Trump’s close ties with Pakistan’s military leadership. We must carefully reassess our defence ties with the US in light of these developments”.
Past military support
In February, the Trump administration approved a $397-million deal to maintain F-16 jets. These funds were allegedly transferred to Islamabad in the name of counterterror measures.
The deal reflects ongoing US support for Pakistan’s defence capabilities despite complex regional dynamics.
Later in October, Washington approved the sale of 120 Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missiles (AMRAAM), which can be integrated with F-16s, providing more precise and longer-range engagement options. This sale marked a significant expansion of Pakistan’s aerial arsenal.
Similarly, in September 2022, the Biden administration approved the previously halted assistance of $450 million for Pakistani F-16s. The funds were initially blocked by the Trump administration over concerns regarding Islamabad’s commitment to counterterrorism efforts.
(Edited by Sugita Katyal)
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