The United States has approved a $686 million arms package to upgrade and support Pakistan’s F-16 fighter jets, a move likely to raise concerns in India. The deal, reported by Dawn and the Times of India, includes advanced systems such as Link-16 tactical data links, cryptographic modules, avionics updates, training, and comprehensive logistical support. The Texas-based Lockheed Martin will serve as the principal contractor.
The Defence Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) said the sale is intended to modernize Pakistan’s Block-52 and Mid-Life Upgrade F-16 fleet, address flight safety issues, and extend the aircraft’s operational life through 2040. According to the DSCA, the package will also maintain interoperability with US and partner forces in counterterrorism operations and joint exercises. “The proposed sale of this equipment and support will not alter the basic military balance in the region,” the letter stated, emphasizing that no additional US personnel will be stationed in Pakistan.
Of the total $686 million, $649 million will go toward avionics upgrades, cryptographic modules like AN/APX-126 Identification Friend or Foe systems, mission-planning software, simulators, spare parts, and contractor support. About $37 million covers major defense equipment, including 92 Link-16 systems and six inert Mk-82 500-pound bomb bodies for integration testing. The Link-16 systems allow secure, real-time sharing of tactical data among allied forces and are resistant to electronic jamming.
The notification triggers a 30-day congressional review period, during which US lawmakers will scrutinize the sale. Analysts noted that the timing of the deal comes after a high-profile lobbying effort by Pakistan and amid strained ties between Washington and New Delhi. Since President Donald Trump took office, he has hosted Pakistan’s Army Chief and Prime Minister multiple times and has publicly praised Pakistani leadership, while imposing tariffs on Indian goods.
The F-16 package is part of a series of US sales to Pakistan over the past two decades, including aircraft, spares, and missile systems, aimed at supporting counterinsurgency and regional security. While the sale is officially framed as a defensive and interoperability-focused measure, it adds to strategic tensions in South Asia, especially given India’s proximity and reliance on the US as a security partner.
The DSCA stressed that Pakistan has demonstrated the capacity to absorb the technology, and the sale will not affect US defense readiness. The upgrades are expected to strengthen the operational capabilities of the Pakistani Air Force without changing the overall military balance in the region.
