SOURCE: AFI
A deepening financial crisis in Pakistan is threatening the country’s air force capabilities, with reports emerging of a halt in F-16 fighter jet repairs due to unpaid debts.
A US-based aeronautical company has suspended the supply of critical spare parts to Pakistan after the nation failed to settle a payment of over $300,000. This has thrown the Pakistani Air Force into turmoil, as it struggles to maintain its fleet of F-16s and complete aircraft under construction.
The shortage of spare parts, particularly for jet engines, has raised concerns about the air force’s ability to respond to potential threats. The Technical Directorate of Pakistan Aeronautical has urgently appealed to the government to prioritize the payment to the American company, Pratt & Whitney, to prevent a further deterioration of the air force’s readiness.
The crisis has also extended beyond aircraft maintenance. The US company has imposed a broader ban on equipment deliveries to the Pakistani military, impacting the production of new aircraft in Karachi. This dual blow has sparked discussions about the weakening of Pakistan’s air force on the international stage.
Experts warn that Pakistan’s economic woes, characterized by a plummeting rupee, soaring inflation, and a mounting foreign debt, are hindering its ability to meet financial obligations. Dr. Akhil Singh of the Center for Development and Strategy of Asia Pacific highlights the country’s precarious financial position, casting doubt on its capacity to resolve the outstanding debt and restore its air force’s capabilities.
As Pakistan grapples with these challenges, the implications for regional security and the balance of power are becoming increasingly apparent.