Washington: Joe Biden administration has approved the potential sale of F-16 aircraft sustainment and related equipment to Pakistan in a deal valued at up to $450 million.
The Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) delivered the required certification notifying Congress of this possible sale on Wednesday.
“The State Department has made a determination approving a possible Foreign Military Sale to the Government of Pakistan of F-16 Case for Sustainment and related equipment for an estimated cost of $450 million,” the DSCA press release stated.
Also Read: Queen under medical supervision, doctors concerned for her health
The package includes the US government and contractor engineering, technical, and logistics services to support Pakistan’s F-16 fleet, the release said.
The release further said that this sale does not provide Pakistan with any new capabilities, weapons, or munitions.
“This proposed sale 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 statement said.
The US government’s agency underscored, “This proposed sale will support the foreign policy and national security objectives of the United States by allowing Pakistan to retain interoperability with U.S. and partner forces in ongoing counterterrorism efforts and in preparation for future contingency operations.”
Also Read: Couldn’t meet Bangladesh PM Hasina: Mamata Banerjee slams BJP
It further said the proposed sale will continue the sustainment of Pakistan’s F-16 fleet, which greatly improves Pakistan’s ability to support counterterrorism operations through its robust air-to-ground capability. Pakistan will have no difficulty absorbing these articles and services into its armed forces, it said.
It said the proposed sale of this equipment and support will not alter the basic military balance in the region.
There will be no adverse impact on U.S. defense readiness as a result of this proposed sale, it added.
Read More :- Latest World News
Click Here – Download The News 24 App
