The United States has provided a huge $397 million to Pakistan to modernize its F-16 fighter aircraft. This action has raised questions regarding America's diplomatic policy, especially in its relationship with India.
The money will allegedly help Pakistan improve its air defense capabilities by upgrading its current F-16 fleet to the latest standard. This move has far-reaching implications for regional dynamics, especially for India-Pakistan relations.
Critics say that the US move to offer military assistance to Pakistan could be seen as a double standard in light of the intricate history of Pakistani-Indian tensions. Providing such a large amount of money for Pakistani military modernization raises suspicions regarding the regional balance of power and possible implications for Indian national security.
It should be noted that the US has traditionally walked a tightrope in its relations with India and Pakistan, both of which are strategically located in the region. Nevertheless, the recent development has rekindled debate regarding the character of US engagement with Pakistan and its possible implications for the wider regional dynamics ¹.