Donald Trump to Provide Around $400 M ?
- International Affairs North America Pakistan
Shreya Naskar- 0
- 3 minutes read
U.S. President Donald Trump has announced an allocation of nearly $400 million to Pakistan for the maintenance of its F-16 fighter jets, a move that has raised concerns among Indian citizens. This decision follows Trump’s earlier proposal to supply F-35 fighter jets to India, a significant step in strengthening Indo-U.S. defence relations. However, the recent funding for Pakistan’s fleet has sparked debate, given the historical tensions between the two neighbouring countries.
The F-16 fighter jets operated by Pakistan are American assets, and the allocated funds are meant for their upkeep rather than an expansion of Pakistan’s air force capabilities. The maintenance package ensures that the fighter jets remain operational but does not authorize their use against India. As per the agreement between the U.S. and Pakistan, the F-16s are strictly prohibited from being used in any combat operations against India.
Despite the restriction on combat use, India remains cautious about Pakistan’s air force capabilities. The Balakot airstrikes of 2019 witnessed the deployment of F-16s by the Pakistan Air Force (PAF), leading to tensions between the two nations. While the U.S. has reiterated that its assistance to Pakistan is for counterterrorism operations, India views such allocations with suspicion, fearing that these jets could still be used strategically against Indian interests.
Meanwhile, Donald Trump has previously suggested that India could acquire the advanced F-35 fighter jets, one of the most sophisticated multi-role combat aircraft in the world. If the deal materializes, it would mark a significant upgrade in India’s air defence capabilities and further cement its ties with the United States. Trump’s decision to allocate funds for Pakistan’s F-16 maintenance, while also offering F-35 fighter jets to India, highlights the complex geopolitical balancing act the U.S. continues to play in South Asia. While the U.S. insists that the aid to Pakistan is purely for aircraft maintenance and counterterrorism efforts, India remains wary of Pakistan’s military advancements. The move has sparked debate among Indian citizens, who see it as a potential threat to regional security, despite assurances from the U.S. regarding restrictions on the use of these fighter jets.
