The United States has approved the sale of advanced technology, equipment, and support services for Pakistan’s F-16 fighter jets under a comprehensive package valued at $686 million, according to a notification the US Defence Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) sent to Congress on December 8.

The package includes sophisticated systems such as Link-16 tactical data links, cryptographic modules, avionics upgrades, training programs, and wide-ranging logistical support. The DSCA emphasized that the sale is designed to enhance Pakistan’s operational capabilities while ensuring continued alignment with US security objectives.

In its letter to Congress, the DSCA stated that the proposed sale “will support the foreign policy and national security objectives of the United States by allowing Pakistan to retain interoperability with US and partner forces in ongoing counterterrorism efforts and in preparation for future contingency operations.”

The upgrade package is also intended to modernize Pakistan’s F-16 fleet—specifically its Block-52 and Mid-Life Upgrade (MLU) aircraft—improving performance and addressing critical flight-safety issues. With updated systems, the F-16s are expected to remain operational through 2040, expanding Pakistan’s aviation capabilities for the next decade and beyond.

Of the total $686 million, $37 million is allocated for Major Defense Equipment (MDE), including 92 Link-16 data link systems and six inert Mk-82 500-lb bomb bodies intended for integration testing only. Link-16 is a secure, real-time tactical communication network used widely across US and NATO forces, offering high resilience against electronic jamming and providing key battlefield functions such as air control, surveillance, and weapons coordination.

The remaining $649 million covers non-MDE items, including advanced Identification Friend or Foe (IFF) systems, AN/APQ-10C Simple Key Loaders, avionics software updates, and NSA-certified KY-58M and KIV-78 cryptographic units for secure communication.

Other components include precision navigation systems, Joint Mission Planning Systems, missile adaptor units, spare parts, testing equipment, full-motion simulators, technical documentation, and comprehensive training for personnel.

The DSCA letter assures Congress that Pakistan is fully capable of absorbing the new technology and that the package “will not alter the basic military balance in the region.” It further notes that implementation will not require deploying additional US personnel to Pakistan and will not affect US defense readiness.

Lockheed Martin, based in Fort Worth, Texas, has been designated as the primary contractor for the program.

Pakistan initially sought upgrades to its F-16 fleet in 2021 amid a period of strained bilateral ties. Although the US delayed its response at the time, the proposal has now moved forward as part of a broader recalibration of defense cooperation.

A diplomatic source familiar with the development said Pakistan “welcomes the US offer, as it will enhance the shelf life of its F-16s until 2040,” even though the country now relies more heavily on domestically produced and jointly developed aircraft, which proved effective during the May 2025 air war against India.

The DSCA letter—sent to the Speaker of the House and the heads of key congressional committees—concludes that the sale will bolster Pakistan’s security capabilities while advancing US strategic interests and ensuring the continued safe operation of Pakistan’s F-16 fleet. (ILKHA)