By The United States Air Force has awarded a major long-term contract worth $488 million to Northrop Grumman for engineering and technical support of radar systems used in F-16 Fighting Falcon jets. Pakistan is among more than 20 countries that will benefit from this agreement, reinforcing ongoing defence cooperation between the United States and its international partners.
According to official details released this week, the contract focuses on sustaining and enhancing the APG-66 and APG-68 radar systems installed in F-16 aircraft. These radar systems are critical for navigation, targeting, and overall combat effectiveness. The work will primarily take place in Linthicum Heights, Maryland, and is scheduled to continue until March 31, 2036, highlighting a long-term commitment to maintaining the operational readiness of F-16 fleets worldwide.
The agreement falls under the US Foreign Military Sales (FMS) programme and includes a wide range of allied and partner nations such as Bahrain, Egypt, Greece, Indonesia, Israel, Jordan, South Korea, Morocco, Pakistan, Poland, Romania, Thailand, and Turkiye, among others. This initiative reflects Washington’s broader strategy of ensuring interoperability and standardisation among allied air forces.
The contract was awarded on a sole-source basis by the Air Force Lifecycle Management Centre in Utah. At the time of signing, an initial funding allocation of $2.64 million from fiscal year 2026 non-appropriated Air Force and Navy funds was committed. This initial amount will support early-stage operations, with further funding expected as the programme progresses.
This development follows an earlier move in December 2025, when the Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) notified the US Congress of a proposed $686 million upgrade package specifically for Pakistan’s F-16 fleet. That proposal includes advanced systems such as Link-16 tactical communication technology, cryptographic security tools, avionics improvements, and extensive training and logistical support.
The planned upgrades aim to significantly enhance Pakistan’s operational capabilities by improving communication, navigation, and mission coordination. Additional components include modifications to flight software, identification friend-or-foe (IFF) systems, precision navigation tools, and secure communication equipment. The package also covers simulators, technical documentation, software upgrades, and ongoing engineering assistance.
Lockheed Martin has been identified as the primary contractor for the upgrade programme. US officials have clarified that the project will not require deployment of additional American personnel to Pakistan and will not impact US military readiness.
According to the DSCA, the purpose of the upgrade is to modernise Pakistan’s F-16 fleet, extend its operational life until around 2040, and ensure compliance with modern safety and avionics standards. The agency also noted that Pakistan has the technical capability to effectively integrate and maintain these upgrades.
Diplomatic sources indicate that Pakistan has welcomed the continued US support, viewing it as essential for maintaining the effectiveness of its air force. While Pakistan has diversified its defence acquisitions in recent years, the F-16 remains a key component of its aerial capabilities due to its reliability and advanced systems.
Overall, both the newly awarded support contract and the earlier upgrade proposal demonstrate sustained US engagement in strengthening allied air forces. These efforts not only enhance Pakistan’s defence readiness but also contribute to broader regional stability and interoperability among partner nations.
FAQs
1. What is the value of the new F-16 support contract?
The contract is worth $488 million.
2. Which company received the contract?
Northrop Grumman was awarded the contract.
3. What is the purpose of this contract?
It provides long-term engineering and technical support for F-16 radar systems.
4. Which countries are included in this programme?
Over 20 countries, including Pakistan, Egypt, Greece, and Turkiye.
5. What radar systems are covered?
The APG-66 and APG-68 radar systems.
6. How long will the contract last?
The project is scheduled to continue until March 2036.
7. What was the 2025 US proposal for Pakistan?
A $686 million package to upgrade Pakistan’s F-16 fleet.
8. What upgrades are included for Pakistan?
Avionics, communication systems, navigation tools, and training support.
9. Who is the main contractor for the upgrade programme?
Lockheed Martin.
10. What is the main goal of these upgrades?
To extend the F-16 fleet’s lifespan to 2040 and improve operational capability.
