WASHINGTON: The United States has approved a $686 million package to upgrade Pakistan’s F-16 fighter jets, authorising the sale of advanced systems, avionics enhancements and long-term logistical support, according to a December 8 letter sent by the US Defence Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) to Congress.
The deal includes Link-16 data link systems, cryptographic equipment, avionics upgrades, training modules and comprehensive sustainment support aimed at modernising Pakistan’s F-16 fleet. The DSCA said the package aligns with Washington’s national security objectives by ensuring Pakistan remains interoperable with US and partner forces in counterterrorism and future contingency operations.
The proposed upgrades are designed to enhance operational safety and extend the life of Pakistan’s Block-52 and Mid-Life Upgrade F-16 aircraft through 2040. The letter notes that the improvements will enable “seamless integration and interoperability between the Pakistan Air Force and the US Air Force during combat, exercises, and training,” while addressing critical flight-safety concerns.
The agency also stressed Pakistan’s ability to effectively absorb the technology, stating the country has consistently maintained its military capability. It further assured Congress that the sale would not alter the regional military balance.
Lockheed Martin will serve as the principal contractor. The DSCA clarified that executing the sale will not require assigning any additional US government or contractor personnel to Pakistan, nor will it affect US defence readiness.
Of the $686 million package, $37 million covers major defence equipment (MDE) while $649 million accounts for other systems and support. The MDE portion includes 92 Link-16 units and six inert Mk-82 bomb bodies for weapons-integration testing. Link-16 — a secure, real-time tactical data network used by US and NATO forces — enhances battlefield awareness, electronic protection and air-combat coordination.
The non-MDE segment includes AN/APQ-10C key loaders, AN/APX-126 Identification Friend or Foe (IFF) systems, cryptographic modules such as the KY-58M and KIV-78, mandated avionics updates, precision-navigation equipment, secure-communications systems, Joint Mission Planning Systems, test equipment, spare parts, simulators, training, publications and long-term engineering and logistics support.
Pakistan first sought these upgrades in 2021, but the request stalled amid diplomatic tensions. Although Pakistan has since diversified its airpower — with newer jointly developed platforms proving effective during the May 2025 air conflict with India — officials say the F-16 upgrades remain strategically valuable.
“Pakistan still welcomes the US offer, as it will enhance the shelf life of its F-16s until 2040,” a diplomatic source said.
The DSCA’s letter, addressed to the Speaker of the House and relevant committee chairs, concludes that the sale will strengthen US foreign-policy goals while ensuring Pakistan’s F-16 fleet remains safe, modern and operationally viable for years to come.
