In a significant development, Pakistan is likely to receive the AIM-120D Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missile (AMRAAM) from the United States. This comes amid growing diplomatic and defense cooperation between the two countries. The news gained attention after recent meetings between former US President Donald Trump and Pakistan’s military chief, General Asim Munir.
US-Pakistan Defense Ties Strengthen Amid AIM-120D Discussions
Recent discussions between the United States and Pakistan are reportedly setting the stage for closer military collaboration. Officials suggest that these talks have created a pathway for Pakistan to acquire advanced weapon systems, including the AIM-120D missile. Pakistan has actively lobbied for this missile system to strengthen its air defense and enhance overall combat readiness.
The AIM-120D is a beyond-visual-range missile, which means it allows fighter jets to engage enemy aircraft from long distances with high precision. This capability significantly increases the effectiveness of aerial operations and gives the Pakistani Air Force a technological advantage in combat scenarios. The missile’s advanced guidance system and speed make it a critical asset for modern air warfare.
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The Pakistan Air Force currently operates F-16 Block 52 jets and equips them with the older AIM-120C5 missiles. Supplying the AIM-120D missiles will represent a major upgrade to this fleet. With improved targeting, longer range, and better operational efficiency, the AIM-120D missiles will significantly strengthen the Pakistan Air Force’s air combat capabilities.
AIM-120D Missile Supply Details
Raytheon Systems, a leading US defense contractor, manufactures the AIM-120D missiles. The US Department of Defense has reportedly included Pakistan in the list of potential recipients for these missiles. While formal government approval is still pending, sources suggest that the deal could be worth over $40 million.
These missiles offer advanced targeting and precision strike capabilities. The AIM-120D system is capable of engaging multiple aerial targets simultaneously and is known for its speed, range, and accuracy. The upgrade from AIM-120C5 to AIM-120D will significantly enhance Pakistan’s ability to conduct long-range aerial operations, giving its air force a modernized edge in combat readiness.
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Pakistan’s request for these missiles has been ongoing for several years. The recent political and military engagements, including General Asim Munir’s visit to the US in July, appear to have accelerated the approval process. Pakistani military leadership has consistently emphasized the necessity of this upgrade to maintain operational readiness for its F-16 fleet. The introduction of AIM-120D missiles is seen as a key step in strengthening the overall aerial defense strategy.
Regional Implications
The supply of AIM-120D missiles to Pakistan is expected to influence military calculations across South Asia. In the past, India has expressed concerns over major US defense deals with Pakistan. When Pakistan received prior upgrades for its F-16s, India lodged formal complaints and engaged US authorities to raise security concerns.
The US-Pakistan defense collaboration, particularly involving the missile, underscores the strategic importance of military relations between the two nations. Pakistan’s acquisition of these advanced missiles is part of a broader effort to modernize its air force and enhance aerial defense capabilities.
The AIM-120D supply also reflects a shift in US defense policy, indicating a willingness to provide high-end military technology to allied nations. These missiles, being beyond-visual-range and highly accurate, are expected to become a core component of Pakistan’s aerial defense strategy.
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This development comes as part of ongoing diplomatic and defense interactions between the US and Pakistan, further highlighting the closer ties between the two countries. The move marks a significant milestone in Pakistan’s military modernization program and showcases the US’s role in supplying advanced military technology to regional allies.
With the AIM-120D upgrade, Pakistan’s air force is set to gain a major boost in combat readiness, signaling a new chapter in South Asian defense capabilities. The introduction of these advanced missiles is likely to remain a key talking point in regional security discussions.