Pak May Use F-16 Jets Against India: US Lawmakers Voice Concern

US lawmakers express the need to leverage military sales to Pakistan to get more cooperation within the region.

F-16 fighter jet. (Photo: iStockphoto)

Top US lawmakers have expressed concerns over the Obama administration’s decision to sell eight F-16 fighter jets to Pakistan, saying that the aircraft could be used against India and not combat terrorism. They have also urged the Obama administration to review this decision.

Many members of Congress, including me, seriously question the judgement and timing of such a sale. Additionally, Indo-Pak tensions remain elevated and some question whether the F-16s could ultimately be used against India or other regional powers, rather than the terrorists as Pakistan has asserted.

Matt Salmon, US Congressman

Congressional Hearing on Afghanistan and Pakistan

Salmon was joined by several other lawmakers during the Congressional hearing on Afghanistan and Pakistan convened by the Subcommittee on Asia and Pacific of the House Foreign Affairs Committee wherein the Obama administration was represented by the Special US Representative for Afghanistan and Pakistan Richard Olson.

We’ve got to be concerned what military assistance and whether the F-16s constitute the least expensive, most efficient way for the Pakistani air force to go after the terrorists and the least disruptive weapon system to the balance of power between India and Pakistan.

Brad Sherman, US Congressman

US President Obama. (Photo: AP)

Decision to Give Pak F-16 Jets Put on Hold

The US Senate has currently put a hold on the decision of the Obama administration to give eight F-16 fighter jets to Pakistan at an estimated cost of $700 million. Salmon asked Olson to clarify the underlying purpose and timing of the intended sale and how is it in the best interest of the United States.

Congressman Salmon went on to state that despite giving Pakistan enormous amounts of counter-terror assistance over the years, terrorist organisations continue to operate with impunity in Pakistan. Furthermore, the Pakistani military has carried out fatal attacks inside India.

Leveraging US military sales to Pakistan to ensure more cooperation within the region was also emphasised by Sub-Committee Chairperson Ros-Lehtinen.