US approves $450 million possible foreign military sale for F-16 fleet sustainment programme to Pakistan.

The US 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.

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Pakistan Air Force F-16BM  (Picture source: Colin Cooke)

The Government of Pakistan has requested to consolidate prior F-16 sustainment and support cases to support the Pakistan Air Force F-16 fleet by reducing duplicate case activities and adding additional continued support elements. Included are U.S. 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
· Studies and surveys
· Other related elements of aircraft maintenance and program support.
· The proposed sale does not include any new capabilities, weapons, or munitions.

The estimated total cost is $450 million.

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.

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.

The principal contractor will be Lockheed Martin Corporation, Fort Worth, TX.