US: Donald Trump clears USD 686 million F-16 upgrade for Pakistan amid trade tension with India

The package includes Link–16 systems, cryptographic equipment, avionics updates, training, and comprehensive logistical support, reported Pakistan’s Dawn News.

In its letter, the DSCA stated that the sale “will support the foreign policy and national security objectives of the United States by allowing Pakistan to retain interoperability with US and partner forces in ongoing counterterrorism efforts and in preparation for future contingency operations.”

The sale is intended to modernize Pakistan’s F-16 fleet and address operational safety concerns. According to Dawn News, the DSCA noted that it will “maintain Pakistan’s capability to meet current and future threats by updating and refurbishing its Block–52 and Mid Life Upgrade F–16 fleet.”

The upgrades are designed to provide seamless integration and interoperability between the Pakistan Air Force and the US Air Force in combat operations, exercises, and training. Refurbishment will extend the aircraft’s operational life through 2040 while addressing critical flight safety concerns. Lockheed Martin of Fort Worth, Texas, will serve as the principal contractor for the sale.

The DSCA also pointed out that “implementation of this proposed sale will not require the assignment of any additional US Government or contractor representatives to Pakistan” and that there will be “no adverse impact on US defence readiness as a result of this proposed sale.”

The total estimated value of the sale is $686 million, with major defense equipment valued at $37 million and other items at $649 million. The major defense equipment (MDE) component includes 92 Link–16 data link systems and six inert Mk–82 500-lb general-purpose bomb bodies, which will be used solely for weapons integration testing.

PM Modi, Donald Trump hold ‘warm’ call amid trade deal speculation

Amid growing speculation about a potential breakthrough on a long-pending trade deal, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump held a phone conversation on Thursday to review India–US relations and discuss ways to deepen cooperation across several strategic sectors.

According to an official statement, the leaders assessed progress in the bilateral partnership and explored avenues to expand collaboration in trade, critical technologies, energy, defence, and security.

They “expressed satisfaction” with strengthening cooperation and “underlined the importance of sustaining momentum” in efforts to boost trade. The statement highlighted their commitment to work closely under the India-US COMPACT framework — a 21st-century initiative aimed at accelerating military partnership, commerce, and technology collaboration.

Modi later described the conversation on X as “warm and engaging,” noting that regional and global developments were also discussed.

The call followed Russian President Vladimir Putin’s high-profile visit to India, which drew global attention for defence and energy agreements signed, as well as the visible personal rapport between Putin and Modi.