The defense relationship between the United States and Pakistan has been a mix of cooperation and tension.

While Pakistan has historically relied on American military aid, relations have soured since the mid-2010s due to differences over counterterrorism efforts and security policies. Despite past support, concerns over the use of American-supplied military equipment, including F-16 fighter jets, have led to stricter oversight and restrictions.

U.S. Unfreezes $397 Million for Pakistan’s F-16 Fleet

In a significant policy shift, the U.S. government has released $397 million in security assistance to Pakistan, specifically aimed at tracking and monitoring the country’s F-16 fighter jet operations.

This funding is part of a broader $5.3 billion foreign aid package under the Trump administration, with most allocations focused on security and counternarcotics programs.

Strict Oversight on Pakistan’s F-16 Fleet

A key condition of this newly approved funding is the deployment of a Technical Security Team (TST)—a group of U.S. contractors stationed in Pakistan to ensure the F-16s are used in compliance with U.S. end-use agreements. The monitoring is particularly focused on the newer F-16C/D Block-52 fighters, which are primarily authorized for counterinsurgency (COIN) and counterterrorism (CT) operations.

This decision underscores Washington’s intent to maintain strict control over how Pakistan deploys its F-16s, ensuring they are not used beyond their agreed-upon scope.

Pakistan’s F-16 Program and Future Challenges

The F-16 has been the backbone of the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) for decades. However, due to deteriorating U.S.-Pakistan relations, efforts to acquire additional F-16s through U.S. Foreign Military Financing (FMF) have been blocked. In 2016, Pakistan’s request to purchase eight additional F-16C/D Block-52 jets was denied under policy restrictions set by the Trump administration.

With the aging fleet, Pakistan faces future challenges in sustaining its F-16 program. By the 2030s, its older F-16A/B variants will be nearly 50 years old, raising concerns about long-term serviceability. Without a clear path to acquiring new F-16s, Pakistan may have to explore alternative fighter jet options to maintain its aerial combat capabilities.

Selective Aid and Strategic Implications

While the U.S. has unfrozen military aid to track Pakistan’s F-16s, broader humanitarian aid remains restricted. The Trump administration’s “America First” policy, spearheaded by then-Secretary of State Marco Rubio, prioritized military assistance for key allies like Israel and Egypt while limiting funds for humanitarian programs.

The decision to approve security-related aid while restricting broader humanitarian assistance reflects Washington’s strategic priorities. It signals a pragmatic approach—ensuring U.S. military technology in Pakistan is closely monitored while keeping broader defense ties cautious and conditional.