Delivery of new version F-16 aircraft to PAF completed
ISLAMABAD Dec 13 (APP): With the induction of fourth batch of new F-16 C/D Block 52+ aircraft in Pakistan Air Force the delivery of the squadron of the aircraft from USA has been completed.A simple but impressive ceremony was held on Monday at the PAF Base,Shahbaz (Jacobabad), which was attended by Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Rao Qamar Suleman, and US Ambassador to Pakistan, Cameron P Munter were present on the occasion.A number of PAF and US officials also attended the ceremony.
Arrival of the last batch completes the delivery of F-16s C/D Block 52 models, which Pakistan had contracted for the PAF during 2005.Air Chief addressing the gathering said, F-16s have proved to be a game changer in our fight against extremism and terrorism. It has brought quick,decisive and least expensive success, with negligible or no collateral damage when employed in South Waziristan, Swat, Bajaur, Orakzai and Kurram agencies of FATA.
“The mission of PAF is to maintain peace with honor in the region. We live in volatile and uncertain times, in such environment it is a difficult mission. However, our commitment and resolve to defend Pakistan is unshakable”.
Air chief Marshal Rao said “Whenever required, PAF will employ all assets and resources at its disposal, including these aircraft to defend the nation against external and internal threats”.
US Ambassador on the occasion said “these advanced fighters are enormously significant and powerful tools. These aircraft will help your forces to protect your people and will serve legitimate defence needs of Pakistan. Let no one question this: you are in tough fight. And let no one doubt that America stands with you”.
He said “Our government shares a positive vision of partnership one founded on shared values, common interests, and mutual respect. On this foundation rests America’s clear and comprehensive commitment to the well-being and progress of the people of Pakistan”.
PAF is in the process of rapidly operationalizing the new fighter aircraft. In this regard a select group of PAF Airmen had been given training on the new weapon system in USA earlier this year. A re-equipment ceremony of F-16 C/D Block 52 aircraft squadron is planned to be held in near future.
The F-16 Block 52 aircraft represents the latest configuration of Lockheed Martin’s 4th generation multirole fighter, offering additional fuel and payload capacity, new or improved avionics and sensors, and color cockpit displays with enhanced pilot/vehicle interfaces. This is the fourth batch of new F-16s delivered; the first delivery of three took place June 27. Subsequent deliveries were made on October 30 and November 20.
Additionally, the U.S. is working with the PAF to update 45 F-16s from its existing fighter fleet through the U.S. Foreign Military Financing security assistance program. When the updates are completed, these aircraft will have capabilities similar to those of the new F-16s, including advanced communications and a precision targeting system. The first batch of updated F-16s is scheduled to arrive in Pakistan in early 2012.
Associated Press Of Pakistan ( Pakistan's Premier NEWS Agency ) - Delivery of new version F-16 aircraft to PAF completed
Pakistan receives last batch of F-16 combat jets
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