Pakistan’s new F-16 shipment to close era of Chinese reliance | Aviation International News

Pakistan’s new F-16 shipment to close era of Chinese reliance

The Pakistan air force is due to begin receiving new-build F-16s from Lockheed Martin beginning in 2009.

By David Donald • Contributor - UK

November 6, 2007

The Pakistan air force is due to begin receiving new-build F-16s from Lockheed Martin beginning in 2009. The 18 aircraft on order–plus a major upgrade package for the nation’s existing aircraft and further options–will dramatically enhance the service’s capabilities and will bring to a close a controversial 20-year procurement saga. During that time Pakistan turned increasingly to China for the majority of its weaponry, and while it ordered large numbers of F-7 and JF-17 fighters to maintain numbers, the U.S.-made F-16s will bring a welcome boost in precision attack capability.

Pakistan received its first F-16s in January 1983 through U.S. foreign military sales channels. The initial batch comprised 28 F-16As and 12 F-16Bs, all to Block 15 standard. Starting in January 1986 these were modified to carry the French ATLIS II laser designation pod, allowing them to deliver Paveway laser-guided bombs.

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