The Pentagon reported on Thursday that the USA had approved a potential $450 million sale to give Pakistan services to maintain its fleet of F-16 fighter jets.
The State Department has committed to approving a potential sale of F-16 Case for Maintenance and support and related equipment to the Government of Pakistan for an estimated $450 million, according to news release from Pentagon on Wednesday.
According to the news report, the package includes engineering, technical, and logistics support for Pakistan’s F-16 fleet from the US government and service companies.
According to the release, this sale does not give Pakistan any new capabilities, weapons, or military equipment.
The Pentagon highlighted the importance of this sale in maintaining Pakistan’s connectivity with US forces and alliance partners in the ongoing antiterrorism campaign.
The principal contractor can be Lockheed Martin Corp(LMT.N), the Pentagon said. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency delivered the required certification notifying Congress of this possible sale.
The Government of Pakistan has requested to consolidate prior F-16 sustainment and help cases to help the Pakistan Air Force F-16 fleet by reducing duplicate case activities and including additional continued support elements. Included are US government and contractor engineering, technical, and logistics services for follow-on support of Pakistan’s F-16 fleet to include:
- Participation in F-16 Aircraft Structural Integrity Program
- Electronic Combat International Security Assistance Program
- International Engine Management Program
- Engine Component Improvement Program, and other technical coordination groups
- Aircraft and engine hardware and software modifications and support
- Aircraft and engine spare repair/return parts
- Accessories and support equipment
- Classified and unclassified software and software support
- Publications, manuals, and technical documentation
- Precision measurement, calibration, lab equipment, and technical support services
