US approves $686-million sale of advanced technology for Pakistan’s F-16 jets
Second upgrade since Operation Sindoor
The US has approved a $686-million sale of advanced technology and support systems for F-16 fighter jets in Pakistan’s arsenal, the second upgrade since Indian Air Force (IAF) strikes during Operation Sindoor (May 7-10) hit three bases in Pakistan that house the jets and maintenance teams.
The US Defence Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) has okayed the sale and informed the US Congress about it. It includes new 500-pound bombs and crucially communication system called ‘Link-16’, providing for secure data allowing pilots real-time sharing of text, images and videos with ground commanders. The US-okayed package also includes precision navigation, cryptographic equipment, avionics updates, training and logistical support.
These updates for the F-16 would provide “seamless integration and interoperability between the Pakistan Air Force and the US Air Force” on various fronts, the DSCA said in its letter.
It said the sale would maintain Pakistan’s capability to meet current and future threats by updating and refurbishing its ‘Block-52’ and mid-life upgrade F-16 fleet. It will also extend the aircraft life through 2040 while addressing critical flight safety concerns. This proposed sale will support the foreign policy and national security objectives of the US by allowing Pakistan to retain interoperability with US and partner forces in ongoing counterterrorism efforts and in preparation for future contingency operations.
The fresh $686 million sale is happening just two months after the US approved the supply of the latest iteration of missiles launched from F-16 jets, which challenge the IAF in any future skirmish with Pakistan.
The new missiles would have the ability to hit targets in air at ranges beyond 200 km, which is greater than what Pakistan’s PL-15E, an export version of China’s air launched missile. The Pakistan Air Force (PAF) already flies the F-16 jets.
In October, the US Department of War issued a contract to missile-maker Raytheon for the C-8 and D-3 variants of the Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missile.
The latest $686 million package is the second major sale since the IAF hit the Jacobabad, Chaklala (Rawalpindi) and Sargodha airbases in the early hours of May 10. These bases were critical due to their infrastructure and maintenance facilities for US-origin F-16 jets. They also store key armaments for the jets and serve as training and operational hubs for the PAF.
India’s military calculus on Pakistan is undergoing a reassessment amid renewed US-Pakistan military ties. Officials in South Block are concerned about Washington DC’s potential willingness to re-arm Islamabad with latest missiles, jets and radar systems.
In past decade or more, fresh US military supplies to Pakistan had tapered off. But post Operation Sindoor, military and strategic ties between Washington and Islamabad are getting renewed.
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