U.S. Approves Advanced Technology and Upgrades for Pakistan’s F-16 Jets

International Desk, PNN

The United States has approved nearly $686 million in technology and upgrade sales for Pakistan’s F-16 fighter jets. This decision comes amid ongoing tensions between Pakistan and neighboring India, including a five-day war in May following an insurgent attack in Indian-administered Kashmir.

Analysts say the deal will strengthen Pakistan’s Air Force and influence U.S. defense diplomacy and regional security. Praveen Donthy, an analyst at the Brussels-based International Crisis Group, noted that this extends a 2022 maintenance agreement for Pakistan’s F-16s.

The contract includes hardware and software upgrades, advanced IFF (Identification Friend or Foe) systems, navigation improvements, spare parts, and repairs. $37 million worth of defense equipment is also included, such as 92 Link-16 systems, which enable secure real-time communication between aircraft, ships, and ground forces. Six MK-82 general-purpose bombs in empty metal casings will be supplied for training and testing.

The F-16 is a single-engine fighter capable of air-to-air and air-to-ground attacks, manufactured by Lockheed Martin and first flown in 1974. F-16s are used in 29 countries, including Pakistan, Ukraine, Turkey, Israel, Egypt, Greece, Chile, Singapore, Belgium, Denmark, and Norway.

Regarding Pakistan-India clashes, in May, after the Pahalgam attack, both countries conducted aerial and missile strikes, with Pakistan using 42 advanced aircraft, including F-16s and China-made JF-17s and J-10s. U.S. President Donald Trump declared a ceasefire on May 10.

Experts note that the deal helps Pakistan maintain balance between the U.S. and China, as 80% of Pakistan’s arms supply in recent years has come from China.