US approves $686 million upgrade package for Pakistan’s F-16 fleet

The United States has approved $686 million worth of parts and technology for upgrading Pakistan’s F-16 fighter jets.

According to Bloomberg, the Trump administration has authorized the sale of equipment and technology valued at $686 million to modernize Pakistan’s air fleet.

The US Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) sent a formal notification to Congress this week confirming the approval.

The notification states that the package includes the Link-16 tactical data system — a technology that enables real-time information sharing between aircraft, ground forces, and command centers. The system is considered critical for detecting, tracking, and engaging targets.

The proposed agreement also covers 92 Link-16 systems and six inert bomb bodies used for weapons testing.

Congress now has 30 days to review the sale. The notice adds that the upgrade will help Pakistan maintain interoperability with US and allied forces during ongoing counterterrorism operations as well as any future contingencies.

Bloomberg reports that Pakistan requested the F-16 upgrade in 2021; however, the process stalled when Washington began prioritizing India as a key security partner in the region to counter China.

According to defense assessments, Pakistan currently operates around 75 F-16 aircraft. The notice further states that this upgrade will extend the service life of the F-16 fleet through 2040.