Washington (TDI): The United States has approved a $686 million package of advanced technology and support for Pakistan’s F-16 fighter jets, the US Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) informed Congress in a letter dated December 8.
The deal includes Link-16 systems, cryptographic equipment, avionics updates, training, and comprehensive logistical support.
According to the DSCA, the sale is designed to modernize and refurbish Pakistan’s Block-52 and Mid Life Upgrade F-16 fleet, ensuring the Air Force can effectively respond to current and future threats.
The upgrades will enhance interoperability with the US Air Force during combat operations, exercises, and training, while also extending the aircraft’s operational life through 2040 and addressing critical flight safety concerns.
Pakistan has demonstrated the capacity to integrate the equipment, and the DSCA stressed that the sale will not alter the basic military balance in the region.
Lockheed Martin will serve as the principal contractor, and no additional US personnel will be required in Pakistan for implementation.
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The package includes 92 Link-16 data link systems and six inert Mk-82 500-pound bomb bodies for weapons integration testing.
Link-16 is a secure, real-time communication network used by the US and NATO allies, resistant to electronic jamming, and crucial for surveillance, identification, air control, and weapons engagement coordination.
The deal also covers $649 million in non-major defense equipment, including AN/APQ-10C Simple Key Loaders and the AN/APX-126 Advanced Identification Friend or Foe system to distinguish between allied and hostile aircraft.
The package also features hardware and software upgrades for the Operational Flight Program and mandatory avionics updates, along with NSA-certified cryptographic modules KY58M and KIV78 for secure communications and identification.
It includes additional secure communication and navigation devices, Joint Mission Planning Systems, missile adaptor units, and equipment for weapons integration and testing.
It also provides spare parts, software support, technical documentation, full-motion simulators, and comprehensive personnel training. The proposed sale comes amid a growing strategic partnership between Islamabad and Washington.
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Pakistan and the US have historically been key allies in regional counter-terrorism efforts, with Islamabad recognized as a close non-NATO partner during the War on Terror.
Relations have warmed further under US President Donald Trump following his recent meetings with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chief of Defense Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir.
The development comes as Pakistan seeks to expand its fighter jet fleet, boost defense exports, and strengthen military-industrial collaborations.
Last month, Islamabad announced that a “friendly country” signed an MoU to procure Pakistan’s JF-17 fighter jets during the Dubai Airshow 2025. The JF-17, jointly developed with China, has become the mainstay of the Pakistan Air Force, gradually replacing older aircraft.
Pakistan has also aimed to assert its regional air power, particularly after the four-day conflict with India in May, during which Pakistan claimed to have shot down seven Indian fighter jets, a figure disputed by New Delhi.
Minahil Khurshid holds a Master's in Peace and Conflict Studies from NUST. She is passionate about current affairs, public policy, and geopolitics.
