BackIndia questions US ‘double standards’ as Pakistan secures F-16 upgrade deal

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India questions US ‘double standards’ as Pakistan secures F-16 upgrade deal

Washington's US$686 million military modernisation package could boost Pakistan's nuclear strike capabilities against India, analysts say.

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Washington's decision to approve a US$686 million upgrade package for Pakistan's F-16 fighter jets has drawn criticism from India, with analysts noting it could enhance Pakistan's nuclear strike capabilities.

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Washington decided to upgrade Pakistan's F-16 fighter jets with a US$686 million military modernisation package.

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Although the package does not include nuclear weapons, analysts say that it could boost Pakistan’s nuclear strike capabilities against India

Washington’s decision to upgrade Pakistan’s F-16 fighter jets has drawn accusations of double standards from critics in India, who question why the United States is strengthening a nuclear-armed ally while waging war against Iran over its nuclear programme.

Although the US$686 million military modernisation package does not include nuclear weapons, analysts say that improvements to the fighter jets’ navigation, communications and survivability could boost Pakistan’s existing nuclear strike capabilities against India.

Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh reportedly raised concerns about the F-16 programme with US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth on the sidelines of the Asean Defence Ministers’ Meeting in Cebu, Philippines, late last month.

What to Watch

AI outlook — possibilities, not facts

Indian officials will continue diplomatic pressure regarding US arms sales to Pakistan
Likely · Within months

Open Questions

How will the US respond to India's formal concerns?
What specific timeline is set for the F-16 upgrades?

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India questions US ‘double standards’ as Pakistan secures F-16 upgrade deal

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Japanese public opinion says the government’s new defense strategy has caused concerns at home and abroad

The "anti-epidemic hero" MD-105 heavy-duty disinfection vehicle is about to be replaced. The national army will spend 929 million to buy 72 new vehicles.

Hurricane F5, a high-speed nuclear patrol missile expected to enter service in 2035.

The new F-16V is "she" back!

The Swedish Navy's combat power upgrade "Lulea Class" can be used for air defense, anti-ship and anti-submarine, and will be delivered as soon as 2030

The picture of the Uzbek Army’s strange move is exposed! Balloons were used to carry attack drones deep into the Russian rear

India questions US ‘double standards’ as Pakistan secures F-16 upgrade deal

Quick Look

Why It Matters

What to Watch

Open Questions

Related Topics

Related Stories

Japanese public opinion says the government’s new defense strategy has caused concerns at home and abroad

The "anti-epidemic hero" MD-105 heavy-duty disinfection vehicle is about to be replaced. The national army will spend 929 million to buy 72 new vehicles.

Hurricane F5, a high-speed nuclear patrol missile expected to enter service in 2035.

The new F-16V is "she" back!

The Swedish Navy's combat power upgrade "Lulea Class" can be used for air defense, anti-ship and anti-submarine, and will be delivered as soon as 2030

The picture of the Uzbek Army’s strange move is exposed! Balloons were used to carry attack drones deep into the Russian rear