On May 1, 2026, the US Air Force awarded a $488 million contract to Northrop Grumman for radar systems support, specifically benefiting Pakistan’s F-16 fleet. This contract reflects ongoing US military assistance amid rising tensions with India.
The contract includes long-term engineering and technical support for APG-66 and APG-68 radar systems. Work under this agreement is scheduled to continue through March 31, 2036. An initial amount of $2.64 million in fiscal 2026 funds has already been allocated.
This contract supports multiple partner countries through the US Foreign Military Sales program. In December 2025, the US had notified Congress about a proposed $686 million package aimed at upgrading Pakistan’s F-16 fleet.
The upgrade package encompasses various enhancements, including Link-16 systems, cryptographic equipment, and avionics improvements. Pakistan currently operates around 50 F-16s, each valued at least $40 million.
The US Air Force Lifecycle Management Centre in Utah issued this contract on a sole-source basis. Pakistani officials assert that these upgrades will enhance the survivability and effectiveness of their core fleet asset.
The upgrades are expected to extend the operational life of Pakistan’s F-16s through 2040. Despite Indian objections, this move is perceived as a reinforcement of Pakistan’s airpower.
The US maintains that these upgrades will not disrupt the existing military balance in South Asia. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency emphasized that this sale aligns with US foreign policy and national security goals.
This development illustrates Washington’s commitment to sustaining legacy F-16 capabilities in Pakistan, a crucial aspect of its defense cooperation strategy in the region.
