US Approves $686M Upgrade for Pakistan Air Force F-16 Jets

The US has given a $686 million sale of the advanced F-16 support and equipment to Pakistan. The acquisition enhances the capabilities of the Pakistan Air Force, interoperability with the US, and facilitates counterterrorism missions. It consists of the sale of communication systems, bomb equipment and aircraft modifications to serve F-16 service till 2040.

US Approves $686 Million F-16 Support for Pakistan Air Force

The United States has cleared a major technology sale to support the Pakistan Air Force. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) notified Congress on December 8 regarding this approval. The package is worth $686 million. It focuses on keeping the PAF F-16 fleet combat-ready and fully operational.

This deal does not include new jets. Instead, it provides essential tech. Pakistan requested 92 Link-16 communication systems and six Mk-82 bomb bodies. The sale also covers precision navigation gear, software fixes, and spare parts. Lockheed Martin will serve as the principal contractor. These upgrades allow the Pakistan Air Force to fly these aircraft safely through 2040.

Washington cites national security as the main driver. The US wants Pakistan to stay interoperable with American forces. This helps in ongoing counterterrorism efforts. The DSCA letter confirms this equipment will not alter the military balance in the region. It simply allows Pakistan to meet current and future security threats effectively.

The relations under President Donald Trump have improved. He has just sat down with the Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and the military commanders. That renewed relationship is solidified by this sale. Although the domestically created JF-17 Thunder has become a major resource, modernizing the F-16s will mean that the Pakistan Air Force will have a strong and efficient defence force.