Pakistan approved for $700M in F-16s

The State Department has approved the possible sale of fighter aircraft to Pakistan, according to a Feb. 12 notice from the Defense Security Cooperation Agency.

The potential sale would include eight F-16 Block 52 Aircraft (two C and six D models), as well as 14 Joint Helmet Mounted Cueing Systems (JHMCS), for an estimated major defense equipment value of $564 million and a total estimated value of $699 million.

The aircraft would “facilitate operations in all-weather, non-daylight environments, provide a self-defense/area suppression capability, and enhance Pakistan’s ability to conduct counter-insurgency and counterterrorism operations,” according to DSCA.

The agency says the proposed transaction “contributes to U.S. foreign policy objectives and national security goals by helping to improve the security of a strategic partner in South Asia.”

No contractors have been selected for the potential sale, which is not projected to adversely impact U.S. defense readiness.

The State Department notified Congress of the possible sale on Feb. 11.

Notice: http://dsca.mil/sites/default/files/mas/pakistan_15-80.pdf