Pakistan Libya $4.6bn Defence Deal|F-16 Upgrade Approved by US|Is Pakistan’s Foreign Policy Shifting

In today’s episode of Balance, senior journalist Habib Akram and international affairs expert Dr. Urwa Elahi analyze two major strategic developments that may signal a shift in Pakistan’s defence and foreign policy posture.

The program opens with an in-depth discussion on Pakistan’s reported $4.6 billion defence agreement with Libya, described as one of the largest arms export deals in the country’s history. The deal reportedly includes the sale of JF-17 Thunder fighter jets, Super Mushak training aircraft, along with land, naval, and air defence equipment, joint training, and military production cooperation. Analysts examine the geopolitical implications of Pakistan entering the global arms export market at this scale, particularly in a region like Libya where international dynamics remain complex.

The discussion then moves to Washington, where the United States has approved a $686 million upgrade and sustainment package for Pakistan’s F-16 fleet. With Lockheed Martin named as the principal contractor, the package aims to extend the operational life of Pakistan’s F-16s until 2040, enhance interoperability with US and allied forces, and address flight safety and modernisation requirements. The approval passed through congressional review without objections, raising important questions about regional security perceptions, especially in South Asia.

The episode critically explores whether these developments indicate:

A recalibration of Pakistan’s foreign and defence policy

Growing strategic autonomy in defence exports

A balancing act between the US, regional rivals, and emerging theatres

💬 Join the conversation in the comments:

Is Pakistan emerging as a serious global defence exporter?

Does the F-16 upgrade change the regional balance?

Is Pakistan’s foreign policy entering a new strategic phase?

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