(NSI News Source Info) Islamabad - January 15, 2009: Sensing the need of strengthening its air defence amidst high tension, and rising war fears with India, Pakistan has asked the United States for an early delivery of F-16 fighter jets. Pakistan Defence Minister Ahmad Mukhtar has urged the United States to help Pakistan meet its security requirements, including the provision of F-16 aircraft, The Daily Times reported. 
Two-ship Pakistani F-16A formation, #84704 and #84705 - note the slightly different color scheme. Pakistan has ordered a total of 111 F-16A/B aircraft. Of these, 71 were embargoed by the US due to Pakistan's nuclear weapons program. Of these 71, 28 were actually built but were flown directly to the AMARC at Davis-Monthan AFB for storage. Over the years, various plans were conceived for these 28 aircraft: Pakistan wanted to get the aircraft or their money back; they were offered to various nations, none of which were interested; ultimately, the US Navy and USAF entered them into service as aggressor aircraft. After Pakistan's help in the war on terror, the US lifted the embargo. In 2005, Pakistan requested 24 new Block 50/52 F-16C/Ds (with option for as much as 55 aircraft). At this moment, it is still debated in the US wether these aircraft will be delivered.
Mukhtar met US Ambassador to Pakistan, Anne W Patterson, and informed her about Pak’s military requirements. “The Minister informed the US envoy about the defence requirements of Pakistan particularly the provision of F-16 aircraft,” a statement issued by the Pakistan Defence Ministry said.
The United States had agreed to provide Pakistan F-16 fighter aircrafts in July last year at no cost, except transportation charges from US to Pakistan.
No comments:
Post a Comment