The United States has approved a $686 million upgrade package for the Pakistan Air Force’s (PAF) F-16 fleet, after which the review process has begun in the U.S. Congress.
According to sources, this information was shared in a letter sent to Congress on December 8 by the U.S. Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA).
According to the DSCA notification, the review will last 30 days, during which U.S. lawmakers will discuss the proposed sale of F-16 technology. The agency stated that the proposed sale “will support U.S. foreign policy and national security objectives by enabling Pakistan to remain interoperable with U.S. and partner forces in ongoing counter-terrorism efforts.”
The package includes Link-16 systems, cryptographic equipment, avionics upgrades, training, and full logistical support.
According to the DSCA letter, the sale will upgrade and refurbish Pakistan’s Block-52 and Mid-Life Upgrade (MLU) F-16 fleet to maintain its capability against existing and future threats. The letter further stated that these upgrades will enhance interoperability and integration between the Pakistan Air Force and the U.S. Air Force during operations, exercises, and training, while the refurbishment will extend the aircraft’s service life until 2040 and address critical flight safety issues.
