US approves $686 million sale of advanced tech for Pakistan’s F-16 fleet

US approves $686 million tech upgrade for Pakistan’s F-16 fighter jets

The United States has approved a $686 million sale of advanced technology and support to upgrade Pakistan’s F-16 fighter jets, according to a letter sent by the US Defence Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) to Congress on December 8, as reported by Dawn.

The package includes Link-16 data link systems, cryptographic devices, avionics enhancements, training, and extensive logistical support.

The DSCA letter states the move “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.”

It further notes that the upgrades will help modernise Pakistan’s existing fleet and ensure operational safety, adding that the modifications will “maintain Pakistan’s capability to meet current and future threats by updating and refurbishing its Block–52 and Mid Life Upgrade F–16 fleet.”

According to the letter, the upgrades will allow “seamless integration and interoperability between the Pakistan Air Force and the US Air Force in combat operations, exercises, and training,” while extending the jets’ service life until 2040. Pakistan, the US said, has shown it can effectively absorb and maintain the advanced systems.

The agency also emphasised that the sale “will not alter the basic military balance in the region.”

What will Pakistan receive? 

The $686 million package consists of $37 million worth of major defence equipment and $649 million in additional systems and services.

Key items include:

• 92 Link-16 data link systems
• Six inert Mk-82 500-lb bomb bodies (for integration testing only)
• AN/APQ–10C Simple Key Loaders
• AN/APX–126 Advanced Identification Friend or Foe (IFF) systems
• Secure communication devices
• Precision navigation and cryptographic modules
• Joint Mission Planning Systems
• Missile adaptor units
• Hardware and software upgrades to support the Operational Flight Program
• Full-motion simulators, training, repair parts, and technical documentation

Link-16, which is used by the US and NATO forces, is a secure, real-time network that shares battlefield data and is resistant to electronic jamming. The letter notes: “It provides the warfighter key theatre functions such as surveillance, identification, air control, weapons engagement coordination, and direction for all services and allied forces.”

Lockheed Martin will be the principal contractor. The DSCA clarified that the sale will not require deploying additional US personnel to Pakistan and will not impact American defence readiness.

Why the deal matters

Pakistan formally requested the upgrades in 2021, but Washington’s response had been delayed. The country has since diversified its air fleet, including jointly developed platforms that saw significant action during the May 2025 conflict with India.

A diplomatic source told Dawn that “Pakistan still welcomes the US offer, as it will enhance the shelf life of its F-16s until 2040.”

The letter was sent to the Speaker of the US House of Representatives and the heads of relevant congressional committees, marking the beginning of a 30-day review period. The DSCA concluded that the sale “will support the foreign policy and national security objectives of the United States” while ensuring Pakistan’s F-16s remain safe and operational.