Package includes Link-16 systems, cryptographic equipment, avionics updates and logistics support
The United States has authorized the sale of advanced technology and support to Pakistan’s F-16 fighter jets, worth $686 million, according to a letter from the US Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) to Congress on December 8.
The package includes Link-16 systems, cryptographic equipment, avionics updates, training and full logistics support.
The DSCA letter outlines the rationale for the sale, stating that it will “support U.S. foreign policy and national security objectives by enabling Pakistan to maintain interoperability with U.S. and partner forces in ongoing counterterrorism efforts and in preparation for future contingency operations.”
The proposed sale also aims to modernize Pakistan’s F-16 fleet and address operational security concerns. The letter said it will “maintain Pakistan’s ability to address current and future threats by updating and refurbishing its Block-52 and F-16 Mid Life Upgrade fleet.”
These updates will ensure “more seamless integration and interoperability between the Pakistan Air Force and the United States Air Force in combat operations, exercises and training, and the refurbishment will extend the aircraft’s service life to 2040 while addressing critical flight safety issues,” the letter added.
The document also highlights Pakistan’s willingness to absorb this technology, saying the country “has shown its commitment to maintaining its military strength and will have no difficulty in integrating these items and services into its armed forces.”
It addresses regional concerns, saying “the proposed sale of this equipment and support will not alter the fundamental military balance in the region.”
Lockheed Martin Company of Fort Worth, Texas, will be the prime contractor for the sale. The U.S. defense agency stressed that “implementation of this proposed sale will not require the assignment of additional U.S. government officials or contractors to Pakistan” and that there will be “no adverse impact on U.S. defense readiness as a result of this proposed sale.”
The total estimated value of the sale is $686 million, with major defense equipment valued at $37 million and other items at $649 million.
The Major Defense Equipment (MDE) component includes 92 Link-16 data link systems and six Mk-82 500-pound general purpose inert bomb bodies; the latter will not have an explosive payload and will be used for weapons integration tests.
Link-16 is an advanced command, control, communications and intelligence system. It is a secure, real-time communications network that shares tactical data between allied forces and is used by U.S. and allied NATO forces. The system also resists electronic jamming of enemy air and ground assets.
“It provides warfighters with key functions in the theater of war such as surveillance, identification, air control, coordination of weapons engagement, and direction of all allied services and forces,” the letter said.
The remainder of the deal includes $649 million in non-MDE equipment, including the AN/APQ -10C Single Key Magazines and the AN/APX-126 Advanced Identification Friend or Foe System, used to identify hostile and friendly aircraft.
