WASHINGTON: The United States has approved the sale of spare parts and advanced technology worth $686 million for the upgrade of Pakistan’s F-16 fighter aircraft.
According to Bloomberg, the Trump administration authorized the modernization package to support the enhancement of Pakistan’s existing air fleet.
As reported, the U.S. Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) has notified Congress of the proposed sale, which includes the advanced tactical data system known as Link-16.
This system enables real-time information sharing between aircraft, ground forces, and command centers, improving the ability to detect, track, and engage targets.
The proposed agreement covers 92 Link-16 systems and six inert bomb bodies, which are typically used for weapons testing and training purposes.
Congress has been given a 30-day window to review the sale.
The notification states that the upgrade will help Pakistan maintain its ability to conduct counterterrorism operations and coordinate effectively with U.S. and allied forces during any future contingencies.
Bloomberg further reports that Pakistan initially requested the F-16 upgrade in 2021, but the process was delayed as Washington increasingly prioritized India as a key security partner in its strategic competition with China.
According to defense assessments, Pakistan currently operates approximately 75 F-16 aircraft.
The notification adds that the approved upgrades are expected to extend the service life of these jets until at least 2040.
The U.S. publication also noted that Washington closely monitors how the weapons it supplies are used.
The report recalls that during a border clash in May, Pakistan deployed its advanced Chinese-manufactured defense systems, including J-10C fighter jets, in large numbers for the first time.
