5 February 2016, 22:30 GMT
WASHINGTON (Sputnik) — The US Department of State has approved the sale of eight F-16 combat aircraft and other equipment to Pakistan worth $699 million, the Defense Security Cooperation Agency said in a news release.
"The proposed sale improves Pakistan's capability to meet current and future security threats," the release stated on Friday. "These additional F-16 aircraft will… enhance Pakistan’s ability to conduct counter-insurgency and counterterrorism operations."
The Defense Security Cooperation Agency said it had notified the US Congress of the possible sale and was awaiting approval to execute it.
"This proposed sale contributes to US foreign policy objectives and national security goals by helping to improve the security of a strategic partner in South Asia," it noted.
The Pakistanis will also buy eight AN/APG-68(V)9 radars, and eight Advanced Integrated Defensive Electronic Warfare Suites, the release added.
