SARGODHA: Five F-16 fighter jets purchased from Jordan landed at PAF’s Mushaf Airbase on Sunday.

According to media reports, Pakistan had entered into an agreement with Jordan to purchase an squadron of 13 F-16s – 12 of A model and one of B model. The jets were said to be in good condition since they had attained Mid-Life Update and could be used for another 20 years. The jets have been included in PAF’s 19th squadron. Addressing the induction ceremony, Air Chief Tahir Rafique Butt said the jets had been bought from the Jordanian Air Force because of financial constraints the country was facing at present.

He said Pakistan Air Force was fully prepared and properly equipped to counter the challenges being faced by the country and was not ignorant about its duties.

The air chief said PAF had always played its role in defending the country’s frontiers and nation was proud of its air force. He said all arrangements were being made to equip the PAF with modern technology to make it the best air force. A news website quoted him as saying that the PAF was fully prepared for an operation against the Taliban.