US okays $686m F-16 tech sale to Pakistan

Package includes Link-16 systems, cryptographic equipment, avionics updates and logistical support

The United States has authorised the sale of advanced tech and support for Pakistan's F-16 fighter jets, worth $686 million, according to a letter from the US Defence Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) to Congress dated December 8.

The package includes Link-16 systems, cryptographic equipment, avionics updates, training, and comprehensive logistical support.

The DSCA letter outlines the justification for the sale, stating that it "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 proposed sale is also aimed at modernising Pakistan's F-16 fleet and addressing operational safety concerns. The letter states that it 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".

These updates will provide more "seamless integration and interoperability between the Pakistan Air Force and the US Air Force in combat operations, exercises, and training, and refurbishment will extend the aircraft life through 2040 while addressing critical flight safety concerns," the letter adds.

The document also highlights Pakistan's readiness to absorb the technology, stating that the country "has shown a commitment to maintaining its military forces and will have no difficulty absorbing these articles and services into its armed forces".

It addresses regional concerns, stating that "the proposed sale of this equipment and support will not alter the basic military balance in the region."

Lockheed Martin Company of Fort Worth, Texas, will serve as the principal contractor for the sale. The US defence agency pointed out that "implementation of this proposed sale will not require the assignment of any additional US Government or contractor representatives to Pakistan" and that there will be "no adverse impact on US defence readiness as a result of this proposed sale."

The total estimated worth of the sale is $686 million, with major defence equipment valued at $37 million and other items at $649 million.

The major defence equipment (MDE) component includes 92 Link-16 data link systems and six inert Mk-82 500-lb general purpose bomb bodies; the latter will have no explosive payload and will be used for weapons integration testing.

Link-16 is an advanced command, control, communications and intelligence system. It is a secure, real-time communication network that shares tactical data among allied forces and is used by US and allied Nato forces. The system is also resistant to electronic jamming from enemy air and ground assets.

"It provides the warfighter key theatre functions such as surveillance, identification, air control, weapons engagement coordination, and direction for all services and allied forces," the letter read.

The rest of the deal consists of $649m worth of non-MDE equipment, including the AN/APQ -10C Simple Key Loaders and AN/APX-126 Advanced Identification Friend or Foe system — used to identify hostile and allied aircraft.