The United States Air Force has awarded a $488 million contract to Northrop Grumman for long-term engineering and technical support of F-16 radar systems, with Pakistan among the countries included.
The contract focuses on sustaining the APG-66 and APG-68 radar systems used in F-16 Fighting Falcon jets. Work will be carried out in Maryland and is scheduled to continue through March 2036.
This agreement falls under the Foreign Military Sales (FMS) programme and includes multiple partner nations such as Egypt, Jordan, Turkiye, South Korea, and others alongside Pakistan. The deal was awarded on a sole-source basis, with an initial funding allocation of $2.64 million.
Pakistan Air Force Flies Advanced Jets from China, the US, and France
Continued Support for Pakistan’s F-16 Fleet
The contract highlights ongoing US support for maintaining the operational readiness of allied air forces. Pakistan, which operates a fleet of US-origin F-16 aircraft, continues to rely on periodic upgrades and technical assistance to sustain its capabilities.
This development follows a separate notification by the Defense Security Cooperation Agency in December 2025 regarding a proposed $686 million upgrade package for Pakistan’s F-16 fleet. That package includes:
- Link-16 tactical data systems
- Avionics and communication upgrades
- Cryptographic and navigation equipment
- Training, simulators, and logistics support
The upgrade programme, led by Lockheed Martin, aims to extend the service life of Pakistan’s F-16s through 2040 while improving safety, interoperability, and mission effectiveness.
Strategic Significance
US officials have stated that these efforts are designed to enhance counterterrorism cooperation and interoperability between partner forces. Pakistan has welcomed the continued support, viewing it as essential for maintaining operational capability while gradually diversifying its air fleet.
Overall, the new contract and earlier upgrade plans reflect sustained US engagement with partner nations, including Pakistan, in strengthening long-term defense collaboration and air force readiness.
