India questions US ‘double standards’ as Pakistan secures F-16 upgrade deal
Washington’s decision to upgrade Pakistan’s F-16 fighter jets has drawn accusations of double standards from critics in India, who question why the United States is strengthening a nuclear-armed ally while waging war against Iran over its nuclear programme. Although the US$686 million military modernisation package does not include nuclear weapons, analysts say that improvements to the fighter…
India has raised concerns over the United States' decision to upgrade Pakistan's F-16 fighter jets, accusing Washington of double standards. The US$686 million military modernization package, approved in December, includes upgrades to avionics, cryptographic systems, and related support. While the package does not include nuclear weapons, analysts say it could enhance Pakistan's existing nuclear strike capabilities against India.
Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh reportedly discussed the issue with Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth during the Asean Defence Ministers' Meeting in the Philippines. The upgraded F-16s are expected to operate until 2040. Indian analyst Srinivaasan Balakrishnan argues that the US is strengthening a nuclear-armed ally, Pakistan, while simultaneously pressuring Iran over its nuclear program.
India sees this as a double standard, as the US has applied intense pressure on Iran despite its non-weapons program. The defense ties between India and the US have been strengthening, with India ordering or approving the purchase of various US military equipment. However, Indian analysts question why the US is not applying similar pressure to ensure Pakistan does not use its upgraded F-16s for nuclear strikes against India.
Written by urgent.news from South China Morning Post's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
