The United States (US) Air Force has finalized a $488 million agreement with Northrop Grumman Systems Corp. to provide engineering and technical support for F-16 Fighting Falcon radar systems, with Pakistan among the primary beneficiaries.
This contract focuses on the APG-66 and APG-68 radar systems currently integrated into Pakistan’s fighter fleet.
Operations for the project will be centered in Linthicum Heights, Maryland. The Air Force Lifecycle Management Centre in Utah issued the award on a sole-source basis, with a timeline extending through March 31, 2036.
At the time of the award, $2.64 million in initial funds from the 2026 fiscal year were obligated to start the process.
This development follows a major $686 million package notified to the US Congress in December 2025. That specific deal was designed to modernize Pakistan’s fleet through 2040 by providing Link-16 tactical data systems, avionics upgrades, and cryptographic equipment.
The Defence Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) noted that the sale seeks to “strengthen interoperability among Pakistan, the US, and partner forces for counterterrorism cooperation.”
The current radar support contract falls under the Foreign Military Sales (FMS) program. Besides Pakistan, the deal includes Bahrain, Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Morocco, Turkey, and Thailand, among others.
The DSCA has stated that Pakistan possesses the capacity to absorb the upgrades and maintain the aircraft.
Lockheed Martin remains the lead contractor for the broader modernization efforts, which involve flight program modifications, secure communications, and precision navigation tools. US officials confirmed the upgrades will not require more personnel on the ground in Pakistan and will not hinder US defense readiness.
A diplomatic source stated that Pakistan welcomed continued US support to maintain technical compatibility with allied systems. While the Pakistan Air Force has diversified its fleet lately to reduce dependence on one platform, the source mentioned that the military still values the sustainment of F-16 capabilities.
The radar contract ensures long-term operational readiness for the fleet, covering software updates, technical documentation, and simulators. The sustained engagement highlights the US commitment to keeping the aircraft flight-worthy for regional contingency operations and internal security requirements.
