US approves $686mn F-16 upgrade package for Pakistan Air Force
- Proposed sale will support foreign policy and national security objectives of ÚS by allowing Pakistan to retain interoperability with the US and partner forces in ongoing counterterrorism efforts.'
The United States has approved a $686 million upgrade package for the Pakistan Air Force (PAF)’s F-16 fleet, triggering a Congressional review, according to a December 8 letter sent to the Congress by the US Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA).
The DSCA notification formally begins a 30-day review period during which US lawmakers will discuss the F-16 technology sale. The agency stated the proposed sale “will support the foreign policy and national security objectives of the United States by allowing Pakistan to retain interoperability with the US and partner forces in ongoing counterterrorism efforts.”
The package includes Link–16 systems, cryptographic equipment, avionics updates, training, and comprehensive logistical support.
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The proposed sale takes place as Washington, under US President Donald Trump, warms up to Pakistan after his recent meetings with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir.
The DSCA letter said the sale will maintain Pakistan’s capability to meet current and future threats by updating and refurbishing its Block–52 and Mid Life Upgrade F–16 fleet.
“These updates will 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.
In February this year, the Donald Trump administration had unfrozen $397 million for a US-backed programme in Pakistan aimed at ensuring US-made F-16 fighter jets are used solely for “counterterrorism operations” and not against rival India, according to a list of exemptions reviewed by Reuters.
In 2019, Pakistan faced accusations of deploying US-made F-16 fighter jets during an aerial skirmish over Kashmir.
The incident had raised concerns in Washington about potential violations of agreements restricting the use of US-supplied military equipment to counterterrorism operations.
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