Pakistan approves purchase of F-16s and FC-1 fighters

[flyingsystem]

DATE:13/04/06
SOURCE:Flight International
Pakistan approves purchase of Lockheed Martin F-16s and Chengdu FC-1 fighters


Pakistan’s cabinet has approved the purchase of Lockheed Martin F-16s from the USA and Chengdu FC-1 fighters from China. Reports from Islamabad say the government has given the go-ahead for the $3 billion purchase of 77 F-16s in a mix of new C/D models and used A/Bs.

Pakistan submitted a letter of request for 55 new F-16s, plus 20 options, in April last year, but withdrew it in November in the wake of a catastrophic hurricane. A new letter of request will now be submitted, and a contract is expected to be signed in 2007.

The Pakistan order will extend F-16 production beyond 2009, helping Lockheed meet its stated goal of keeping the line open until F-35 Joint Strike Fighter full-rate production begins in 2012.

Islamabad is also expected to order up to 100 FC-1s, to be co-produced by Pakistan Aeronautical Complex as the JF-17. Deliveries are due to begin in 2007.

GRAHAM WARWICK / WASHINGTON, DC

[kamalla]

After reading about the "catastrophic hurricane" in Pakistan.... I'm not too sure about the accuracy of this article!