Pakistan Gets F-16 Support Deal From US, Is India’s Rafale Advantage At Risk?

Islamabad: Pakistan, which calls itself a 'mediator' amid Iran-US tension, has got a place in an important US defense deal. The United States Air Force has signed a contract with Northrop Grumman worth about 488 million dollars. Under this deal, many countries including Pakistan will be provided technical and engineering support for the radar system of F-16 fighter planes.

What is special in this deal?

Under this agreement, advanced radar systems like APG-66 and APG-68 will be supported and upgraded. This project will run till 2036 and its objective is to keep the F-16 aircraft operational and updated. Countries like Israel, Qatar, Egypt and Turkey are also included in this deal, but the role played by Pakistan in it is considered special.

Is this the first time America gave help to Pakistan?

It's not like that. Earlier in December 2025, the US had approved an upgrade package of about 686 million dollars for Pakistan's F-16 fleet. This included the Link-16 system, avionics upgrades, cryptographic equipment and training. America had then clearly said that this step is in the interest of its national security and foreign policy.

What is America's strategy being considered?

America says that such defense deals strengthen the military capabilities of its allies. But analysts believe that there is a bigger strategy behind this. Actually, America wants to maintain its influence in the region by connecting its allies with its military systems and technology. This is the reason why countries like India, Iran and Afghanistan are also keeping an eye on this deal.

Is this a matter of concern for India?

India has earlier also, been opposing the supply of F-16 to Pakistan. India believes that such weapons can be used against it in future. However, according to defense experts, this upgrade is not a big 'game changer'. Pakistan's F-16s are already old and this deal is mainly for their maintenance and system support.

In comparison, India's modern fighter jets like Dassault Rafale are far ahead in terms of technology. In such a situation, this deal can definitely give some technical strength to Pakistan, but the possibility of a major change in the balance of power is less.