Summary The US Congress had halted the sale on January 12
WASHINGTON (Dunya News/AFP) – Pentagon, United States (US) defense headquarters has stated that India should not worry over Pakistan’s hands on F-16 fighter jets as they are crucial in war on terror.
US defense asked India to not comment negatively on approval of deal pertaining to provision of fighter jets.
In October last year, the US had agreed to sell eight F-16 aircrafts to Pakistan. The decision came ahead of US President Barack Obama’s meeting with Prime Minister (PM) Nawaz Sharif.
However, the Congress had halted the sale on January 12. The members of US Congress questioned the use of fighter aircrafts by Pakistan and its relations with the United States.
A month later on February 13, the country approved sale of eight Lockheed Martin F-16 fighter jets.
The Defense Security Cooperation Agency, which coordinates such foreign arms sales, said it had informed Congress of the plans on Thursday.
The F-16 aircraft would allow Pakistan’s Air Force to operate in all kinds of weather, at night, as well as "enhance Pakistan’s ability to conduct counter-insurgency and counterterrorism operations."
He said India planned to summon the US ambassador "to convey our displeasure."
The Defense Security Cooperation Agency stressed, however, that "the proposed sale of this equipment and support will not alter the basic military balance in the region."
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