In a major development, the US State Department gave its nod to the potential sale of F-16 fighter jet sustainment and related equipment to Pakistan in a deal valued at up to $450 million, confirmed Pentagon Wednesday.
\n\u201cThe 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 Defense Security Cooperation Agency delivered the required certification notifying Congress of this possible sale today,\u201d the statement read.
\nHowever, the proposed sale does not include any new capabilities, weapons, or munitions.
\nIt said that the Government of Pakistan requested to consolidate prior F-16 sustainment and support cases \u201cto support the Pakistan Air Force F-16 fleet by reducing duplicate case activities and adding additional continued support elements\u201d.
\n\u201cThe estimated total cost is $450 million,\u201d the DSCA said.
\nThe sale will support the foreign policy and national security objectives of the United States by allowing Pakistan \u201cto retain interoperability with US and partner forces\u201d in \u201congoing counterterrorism efforts and in preparation for future contingency operations\u201d.
\nThe proposed sale of this equipment and support will not alter the basic military balance in the region.
\nLockheed Martin Corporation will be the principal contractor.
\n\u201cImplementation of this proposed sale will not require the assignment of any additional US Government or contractor representatives to Pakistan. There will be no adverse impact on US defense readiness as a result of this proposed sale,\u201d the statement further said.
\nThe Ambassador of Pakistan to the US, Masood Khan, called it a positive development and thanked the State Department.
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