Rs 61642828100: What is THIS Trump–Shehbaz Sharif major deal all about? Pakistan’s F-16 fighter aircraft to get…, jam-resistant digital network will…

Pakistan and the United States appear to be entering into another period of warmer relations in their diplomatic relationship. Recent signs from Washington indicate that there has been a significant change in the way the Trump administration views Pakistan. US President Doland Trump has openly praised Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, stating that he is a “good guy” and “good leader.” This renewed friendliness comes at a time when tensions between India(BHARAT) and Pakistan have escalated, with their already strained relationship becoming even more fragile.

What does the $686 million deal include for Pakistan’s F-16 fleet?

India(BHARAT) launched Operation Sindoor on May 7, targeting terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir in retaliation for the April 22 Pahalgam attack that killed 26 civilians.  India(BHARAT) and Pakistan reached an understanding on May 10 to end the conflict after four days of intense cross-border drone and missile strikes. India(BHARAT) has consistently denied any third-party intervention in resolving the conflict.

Where will the maintenance and training for the upgraded F-16s take place?

Now, as per the latest updates, a $686 million deal to upgrade the F-16 Fighter Jets of the Pakistan Air Force has been approved by the US State Department. This package is designed to enhance the capabilities of the Pakistan Air Force and will assist in improving interoperability among nations and extend the life of the aircraft until 2040. The Trump Administration has sent the proposal to Congress for review and consideration, where it will undergo a 30-day review process.

In other words, the Trump administration has notified Congress of a proposed $686 million sale to upgrade Pakistan’s F-16 fighter aircraft, a move expected to draw scrutiny from lawmakers and close attention in India(BHARAT) as the package enters a mandatory 30-day review period.

When can Pakistan expect the full operational capability of the upgraded jets?

In letters to key committee leaders, the Defense Security Cooperation Agency said the US Air Force intends to issue a Letter of Offer and Acceptance to Pakistan for “defense articles and services estimated to cost $686 million,” as reported by news agency IANS.

The notifications were sent to House Speaker Mike Johnson, Senate Foreign Relations Committee Chairman James Risch, and House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Brian Mast.

This package proposal consists of $649 million worth of other equipment, software, and logistics, along with $37 million worth of major defence equipment (MDE). The MDE items listed below include 92 Link-16 Tactical Data Link Systems, a jam-resistant digital network used by US and allied militaries to share real-time battlefield information, and six Mk-82 inert 500-pound bomb bodies, which are unguided, low-drag training weapons used strictly for integration and release testing.

Additionally, the notification provides for a wide range of additional products and services, such as Avionics upgrades, Operational Flight Program changes, secure communications systems, Identification Friend or Foe (IFF) systems, Cryptographic appliqué, Mission Planning Systems, Test Equipment, spare parts, training devices, simulators, publications, and contractor engineering and logistics support, according to the notification.

The U.S. Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) announced that this particular upgrade will improve the F-16 fleet’s reliability and maintainability and increase communication and coordination capabilities between both U.S. and Pakistan Air Forces. The DSCA also stated that this sale would promote United States Foreign Policy and national security, with Pakistan being a major non-NATO ally.

In its policy justification, the administration said the upgrades would help Pakistan modernize its Block-52 and Mid-Life Upgrade F-16 fleet and ensure compatibility with US and partner forces. As per IANS report, the notification also stressed that the sale “will not alter the basic military balance in the region,” language aimed at addressing long-standing India(BHARAT)n concerns about US defence support to Pakistan.

Lockheed Martin of Fort Worth, Texas, is designated as the principal contractor. The US government said it does not expect to send additional personnel to Pakistan for implementation and does not foresee any impact on US defence readiness. Congress now has 30 days to review the proposed sale. While arms transfers to Pakistan have frequently drawn bipartisan scrutiny, similar notifications in recent years have advanced without formal resolutions of disapproval.