Washington’s Risky Bet on Pakistan and the F-16

The United States should remain deeply cautious about supporting Pakistan’s F-16 capabilities, as using them as leverage to moderate military behavior has consistently failed. Pakistan’s military has interpreted American sustainment of the jets as validation for its policies, including regional competition with India and maintaining a powerful domestic political role. This situation is now more troubling due to Pakistan's heavy reliance on Chinese defense equipment and financing. Islamabad's deepening partnership with Beijing, exemplified by the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor and joint arms production, means that American F-16 support indirectly benefits a military whose logistics and doctrine are increasingly integrated with China's.