The US has approved a $686 million sale of advanced systems and support for Pakistan’s F-16 fleet, marking the second major upgrade since Indian Air Force strikes during Operation Sindoor (May 7-10) damaged bases that host and maintain those jets.
The Defence Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) notified Congress of the package, which includes 500-pound bombs, the Link-16 tactical data link for secure real-time sharing of text, images and video between pilots and ground commanders, precision navigation, cryptographic equipment, avionics upgrades, training and logistical support. The DSCA said the upgrades will enable “seamless integration and interoperability” between the Pakistan Air Force and the US Air Force.
According to the agency, the proposed sale will update and refurbish Block-52 and mid-life upgrade F-16s, extend the fleet’s service life through 2040 and address critical flight-safety issues. The DSCA framed the sale as supporting US foreign policy and national security objectives by preserving Pakistan’s interoperability with US and partner forces for counterterrorism operations and preparation for future contingencies.
The $686 million package follows an October US contract to Raytheon for C-8 and D-3 variants of the Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missile (AMRAAM). Those missiles, cleared in a separate recent approval, have ranges reportedly beyond 200 km—exceeding the reach of Pakistan’s PL-15E export variant—and are slated for use from F-16 aircraft already operated by the Pakistan Air Force.
This sale is the second significant US military supply to Pakistan since the IAF strikes on Jacobabad, Chaklala (Rawalpindi) and Sargodha airbases on May 10, facilities noted for their infrastructure, maintenance capabilities and armament storage for US-origin F-16s. Indian officials are reassessing strategic calculations as US-Pakistan military ties show signs of renewal after a period in which fresh US military supplies to Pakistan had largely tapered off. South Block has expressed concern over Washington’s willingness to rearm Islamabad with new missiles, aircraft systems and radars.
