NEW DELHI: A 'disappointed' India summoned on Saturday United States envoy in New Delhi, Richard Verma, over Obama administration's decision to sell eight Lockheed Martin F-16 fighter jets to Pakistan, along with training, radar and other equipment, a deal worth $699 million.
"We are disappointed at the decision of the Obama Administration to notify the sale of F-16 aircraft to Pakistan," Indian External Affairs Ministry spokesman Vikas Swarup said on Twitter.
"The US ambassador will be summoned by the ministry of external affairs to convey our displeasure."
Indian Foreign Secretary S. Jaishankar later met the US ambassador at the ministry to convey India's disapproval of the deal to Washington, in a meeting which lasted 45 minutes, reported The Hindu.
The Obama administration notified the Congress on Friday that it planned to sell eight F-16 fighter jets to Pakistan, with a State Department spokesman saying that US weapon sales to Pakistan contributed to the fight against terrorism and furthered America’s foreign policy interests.
The remarks followed a move by some US lawmakers and a campaign in the US media to stop the Obama administration from selling eight F-16 fighter jets to Pakistan.
Although Congress has delayed the proposed sale, the administration still seems interested in pushing it through, insisting that it’s in vital US interests to do so.
"We disagree with their rationale that such arms transfers help to combat terrorism," Swarup said. "The record of the last many years in this regard speaks for itself."
'In US security interests to support Pakistan counter-terrorism efforts'
When asked at a State Department news briefing if he had any figures to back up the claim that US assistance to Pakistan had reduced terrorist activities, spokesman Mark Toner said he did not have such figures in front of him but noted that no country in the region had been more touched by terrorism than Pakistan.
“We believe it’s in our vital national security interests to support Pakistan in carrying out its efforts to destroy these terrorist networks, and we believe it’s an important partner in the region in achieving a stable and secure Afghanistan,” said the US official.
The F-16 aircraft would allow Pakistan's Air Force to operate in all kinds of weather, at night, as well as "enhance Pakistan's ability to conduct counter-insurgency and counterterrorism operations," the US Defence Security Cooperation Agency, which coordinates such foreign arms sales, said in a statement.
The proposed deal will now go through a 30-day notification period after which it will be finalised.
The new aircraft will add to Pakistan’s sizable force of fighter jets which includes more than 70 F-16s and dozens of French and Chinese attack aircraft, the report said.
In May 2015, the US handed over to Pakistan over 14 combat aircraft, 59 military trainer jets and 374 armoured personnel carriers, Dawn newspaper had reported. The weapons supplied to Pakistan were earlier used by American forces in Afghanistan and Iraq.
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Comments (305) Closed
Disappointment may turn into frustration, India should mind its own business.
India shouldn't worry as the senate wont pass the sale of F-16's.
Indians taken it to heart claiming to be a super power and crying over 8 planes and summoning the US ambassador? this is new. themselves they are buying billion dollars worth of military equipment from across the globe and neither Pakistan or any other country protested. how insecure and petty Indian leadership is>
@Sunil O yeah we will see to that.
@Sunil Just wait and watch, the deal is almost done and there is nothing India can do about it other then summoning the ambassador.
India's main agenda is to not let Pakistan be able to defend itself so that she can treat it like a boss. Indian media treats Pakistan in a really disrespectful way and Indians totally feel that their government is doing right. God bless India.
Grow Up Guys . And Plz Let Us live In Peace
off course Indians spend millions to stop the sale but in vain. Indian air force likes to have 3:1 equation. therefore every time pakistan buys a jet IAF will have to buy three. Good strategy by Pakistan.
Why are we Indians always focusing on such negative matters. We are disappointed because our efforts to sideline Pakistan have been consistently failing. Pakistan is a reality the world cannot do away with. Let us focus on reducing poverty and doing away with rampant corruption in our country.
This is all drama.
@Subramaniam Tawakley You are a great man , I wish there were more of us on both sides bro ........
@Subramaniam Tawakley ThankGod Still There Are Courageous Enough To Acknowledge Reality
One can afford these aircraft or that tank , but none can afford war . (My own view not directed to any specific country)
One of the largest importer of arms is alarmed when pakistan gets to buy 8 f16 fighter airplanes! How ironic!
One can afford these aircraft or that tank but one can't afford a war ( my own view not directed towards any specific country)
The anti Pakistan lobbies dont seem to be working funded by Delhi, infront of the cameras and media the US may be harsh towards Pakistan, but behind closed doors, the US administration understands Pakistan needs and priorities. US knows that in this region, having Pakistan on your side is always a good thing, and with CPEC, the US can also take advantage of their relationship with China, and we all know that its only due to Indias population that the US and their business are keen to work closely with Indian, Imagine if the US tapped even a percentage of the China marmet, India should be worried. India should let Pak live in peace and worry about its own issues arrising from corruption and many independant movements.
India is playing Washington. Pakistan is playing the Washington. What's the big deal? Turnabout is fair play. Pakistan and India want to play Russia off the United States like a ping pong ball. The United States' real allies don't play games.
We love you America.pakistan is very much grateful to you. America is our all weather friend.
In July 2006, the United States Congress amended U.S. law to accommodate civilian nuclear trade with India; thus the two countries have an understanding over a Civilian Nuclear Deal and the NSG. Pakistan has not received the same treatment--so, this weapons deal is sort of an appeasement and also a reward/inducement for Pak's ongoing support in the region (esp. in the Afghan matters).
india should not buy any aircraft from usa as a protest that including civilian boeing india plans 500 billion dollar civilian aircraft in the next 20 year so all private airlines in india should be pressured not to by us aircraft only European or other countries, if not haress them income tax issue sales tax issue ect ect
no neulear plants from usa only Russia , france japan ect
that is the only way to make usa listen to our concern
@Lafanga : Then what about China.That means America replaced china. Am i true?
Can any one tell if there is any chance of U turn if any by US due to this??
Not only India we are disappointed as well, we expected F35s with stealth capability to evade enemy radar, with F16s war on terror will not be so successful as US expects.
What is the problem with INDIA? grow up please, and avoid this negative politics
Never get attached to any body or any one, because attachment leads to expectation and expectation leads to disappointment. Pity- India
Deal is not final yet. It's on the table. It should be approved by the Senate. Meanwhile India is also negotiating with U.S. on this issue. However, I feel personally that F-16 is not modern era aircraft. Therefore India should not be serious about that deal.
The Sale Has been approved as Potential sale not Finalised so nothing can be said
Horrible and evil politics by India as usual! Mind you own business!
There is no reason for India to moan over the deal, if Pak have managed to get F-16's form US thats their diplomatic victory. India have other things to look into and should bother about India's economy , poverty, women empowerment, an increasing threat from China and most importantly try to get the benefits of low crude oil price to the masses. This is just a diplomatic stunt but as an Indian I won't lose sleep over this as we definitely have more important things to worry about. Good luck Pak for the new fighters, enjoy them.
@Rustom E Hind You seriouly wrote that. I never like to participate in anti-peace conversation but india is overstepping. You guys should really mind your own business i guess. We are the ones losing countless valuable lives by the hours.
America will do what is in its national interest no matter if India or anyone else likes it or not.
@Bajirao And who made you the modern combat expert. Grow up man.
@Subramaniam Tawakley
Thank you brother for speaking some sense. Agree with you
We know where and when to use F16 against whom
All a trick by US and India. There has to be a hidden agenda. Indian origin getting deeply rooted in US politics.
No need of disappointment. This move of US will make every Indian to work hard for beloved India. Nobody can stop India to prosper as long as Nationalists like Mr. Modi, Mr. Parikar, Mr. Dovel list goes on, will be in government. Remember guys, everytime we are hurt, we come smarter and stronger. Time to build and strengthen self reliant India in health, education, technology. World will bow to us. Congrats Pakistan on new US jets.
@Sunil
Mr. Are u in the senate comity
@Subramaniam Tawakley well said
@Rustom E Hind that is hilarious Rustom my friend
Indians love to tell Pakistanis that Pakistan does not matter to them. Then events like this happen and the mask slips. If an Alien came to earth and watched this tamasha I wonder what he would think?
America is great nation. Well peaceful and lovely country. A true friend. Americans like Pakistanis very much.
US has proved it is a loyal friend, now time for Russia to deliver those promised Su35, next generation S500 and be in Pakistan's good books.
@Bajirao i seriously urge you to search the facts even now f-16 is the 3rd best fighter by usa there is a thing called google search there
@Oneeb what is wrong with india? the indians! that is what is wrong with india.
if more indians were like SUBRAMANIAM TAWAKLEY, there would be no conflict.
How sad all the money went into lobbying against the sale cry baby cry, same willl happen in indias investment in Afghanistan, Indians shouldve learned something from Soviets and its demise
@Subramaniam Tawakley Respect sir
India wants to make all defenseless to dictate. Why worry as every superpower stop to get detterent capability.
Pakistan bought 8 jets from US and India summoned US ambassador??? Is india even allowed to do this??? Seriously??? This is showing who supports terrorism in the region the indians do not want Pakistan to defend their selves. They know Pakistanis are stronger than them. So they are made while they buy everything from Russia, France, usa,Israel, Germany etc Pakistan never says anything because it's none of their business but india just crossed the line today by summoning usa ambassador.
@Upwala Its a done deal. American administrations dont announce something like this openly only to take it back because India pressured it hahaha. Come on. Learn how US politics work.
Is the big elephant with with defence budget of 40 billion annually scared of Pakistan who has defence budget of 7 billion?
@PAKISTAN no its not! Its one of the most sold American Aircrafts but is outdated as of todays F-35s
US think tank getting worried with the Pakistani and Russia bonhomie. Guess Putin is a grand master in chess! :)
poor Indians, so insecure...
Now that's pure frustration. Trust me this Modi is not in mood of peace. He is trying his best to hurt Pakistan in every possible way.
India has no reason to fret at all. This are regular all american f16s. F16s are good all weather fighter jets. Pakistan saw a need to buy them and so they bought them, and if India needs them, India can buy them too.
@Subramaniam Tawakley Your statement shows that India has realistic stock in its public.
Unfortunately, people sitting in your foreign department go absolutely illogical whenever they see any defense deal between Pakistan and United States.
We must do whatever America wants us to do because it helped us very much, so we should return something by serving it. God bless you America
Cheeky hearts, how afraid they are. I think this is obvious reaction,
@Vishnu Shankar You are spot on Vishnu. I wish intelligent people like you would also be the part of your ministry of foreign affairs.
People were expressing open dissent to Indo-American nuculer deal... And now when we are disappointed, they are telling us to grow up.. Ironic
So when America stops the sale, everyone is going to think it's because of India's pressure only. And all Pakistani friends will be disappointed and unhappy with India, again.
@Sunil - Pakistan's counter-terrorism drive is not only in India's interest but the whole region and the world. So don't be short-sighted. Besides, every country needs to have proper defence just as India does!
@Sunil: Grow up. This shows how afraid you all are. Pakistan never bothered to even comment save object to 36 Rafale sale to India. India wants to be major power yet they are afraid of eight F-16 sale to Pakistan, LOL.
Pakistan have jets that more powerful and better than F-16s. China and Pakistan re-made one , when a American F-16 intact crashed,
If india buy no problem why not Pakistan????
I would sleep now happily.
From Pakistani kabbotar to F16 , Indians alwys have a problem with everything related to pakistan
India gripped by all sorts of "intolerance" under Modi.
well US playing games .now they will sale more f16 or better equipment to india.. and making sure that ind and pak will remain enemies. ..
@Deepak Kumar Pakistan never protested over Info US nuclear deal. Only asked for the same deal with Pakistan. India can order 800 F35 we don't bother.
@Rustom E Hind. Your concern? How come India is allowed to enrich Uranium on the pretext of NSG yet when Pakistan buys planes to defend, you have concern. Guess you use your guns as walking sticks.
India should summon Obama because ambassador can not do anything.
This news brought a smile on my face :) hehe
@Arsalan Khan Not yet.
@Rustom E Hind ...really you mean it? Add one more reactionary step. All Indian students should stop going to US for studying, and opt for Russia.
I think India should come up from its anti Pak approach because if you wanna become big power you have feel good with your neighbours.. Well fact is that US now plays with both countries; with Pak it has to counter terrorism policy, but with India US wants economic intersts.. So USA has intelligent diplomatic policy with nation's .. They know that India will never support them militarily in curbing terrorism though claiming high. For example India has always neutral policy towards international conflicts. India can never send its troops post US withdrawal.. For Pakistan leadership it is important that they understand fighter gets can not make you progress but they that went to progress that should tell west to open their market for trade
@Subramaniam Tawakley A positive attitude !!
Big country but narrow mind, what a pity?
I am a Pakistani and i bleed green, but this is also true that i have many Indians as a close friend and when we spend time together we enjoy equally, feel no difference in comparison to any other nationality.
I wish we Pakistani and Indians value our relationship more and try to grow together instead of pulling each other in any given opportunity.
@Subramaniam Tawakley i agree with both india and pakistan should move forward with peace and stability in the region . we are neighbors
US is supplying military hardware to Pakistan for decades, so why so much hype now. US supported Pakistan in every war, I can't understand what made new Delhi worry about this deal.
India, world's 2nd most populous country having one of the largest army in the world with huge defence spending, is afraid of much smaller Pakistan. And still they boast about their strength. .
Poor India....with all the arsenal is has been collecting, it still worries about Pakistan acquiring merely eight F16s!
no need of disappointment,every country has its own independent foreign policy.pakistan still provides strategic depth for US as it is the gateway to west and central asia.moreover,it seems a desperate attempt on part of US to win over Pakistan fom increasing chinese influence.India has a long way to go to before it is in a position to influence the key decisions of others.india should work on reinvigorating its ties with china and russia and should not form a part of any block which is aimed against any particular country.
@Zak You can place orders with India for 5/6 generation planes. Remember Indo Russia JV working on best fighter in world.
Two greedy governments with loads of overtly emotional people... And some creepy people toasting cheers for their business deal!
I don't know why india should be woried, it has a fantastic line up of fighter jets itself, so i'm, surprised they actually felt that 8 F-16's would be worrying for india. But as i have said times before, there will be no war, because if it does, it will be nuclear war and there are no winners there, thats the truth of the matter, so perhaps firing on LOC and even a daring attack on posts might be familiar, there will be no war just as yet. Kashmir will be the pinnacle to any war and peace in the region.
sooner they will disappointed to see CPEC success.... they will call Chinese ambassador and protest.
yesterday indian media highlighted IS/ Daesh opened an office in INDIA.... whom indians should protest about this ? ISIS in Syria or Talibans in Afg ?.
The US must realise Pakistan's sacrifices in the current anti-terror war and continue unhindered military aid to Pakistan. It should not repeat history of 1971 when a lame pretext was made by the then US administration that the Senate impeded delivery of an armada carrying military equipment for Pakistan.The US president has the exclusive authority to override any decree or bill or resolution passed by the Congress if he thinks it in the interest of America. The Indian regime should not be disappointed by such a normal deal and analyse the emerging volatile regional scenario. in case we fail to block way of the militants then demise of the New Delhi is not a far cry.
@Gulfraz Like China worries every time India makes a deal saying it will be harmful for peace in the region, China even blocked India's S400 deal with Russia.
Pakistan should have summoned the French ambassador to express 'displeasure' over the Rafaele jets deal. But clearly our leaders don't have the spine....
@Suniel Yes, no war.
@RÖY - Good one!
America !! thank you.
The world's largest buyers of weapons has the problem over Pakistan receiving just 8 aircrafts!!!!!!!!
@Subramaniam Tawakley Very well said Sir, nice to see some one reasonable from the other side. Bravo.
But I thought India wanted Pakistan to tackle terrorism and PAF has been using these jets to attack terrorists targets. So what is the problem here?
Do they want us to fight terrorism or not? If yes, with outdated equipment only. Seriously confusing.
Will ever Pakistan do the same ? NO
@Sandeep . We can have more than one All Weather friend. Cant we?
A happy Pakistan is a disappointed India! There is your two nation theory!
@Sunil Read again. The process is now past that point.
@Rustom E Hind and then India will be reminded of its place by USA.
I thought Indian had a strong lobbying caucus at the Capitol Hill? Will Pak ever be able to summon US ambassador like India did? I doubt it.
@Bajirao oh yes the only modern era aircrafts are your Tejas....
Why is India 'disappointed' on this? Pakistan is not as aggressive or 'immature' as India to use them against any other country. Need is to use them in fight against terror or maintain the defense. Also, India must go back and check their own nuclear agreements with US that Pak doesnt have. Show some tolerance as the world has moved forward.
Summoning of the US ambassador is only a gesture setting a diplomatic benchmark. The Indian purpose is to show a strong reaction to its erstwhile ally, the USA. This has definite diplomatic value so that when America decides to engage Pakistan more vigorously or advanced weaponry is to be sold to Pak in the future, the US would try to gauge the possible Indian reaction and the ramifications it would have on Indo-US relations. It would gauge the Indian reaction based on the benchmark the Indians have set. Therefore, as a Pakistani, I would say that it is a brilliant diplomatic move by the Indians and Pakistan needs to learn better diplomacy from its neighborhood as well. Dawn please publish this, thanks.
Only 8?... Pakistan needs to replace all of its 70 F-16 fighter jets.
IAF spent 6 months trialing Rafale & Typhoon & F16 the best ever F16 BUILT (half a generation ahead of block52) and F16 lost their competition on technical ability. Israel was a Mirage user and even used it in combat but preferred F-16 because of military aid and political reasons just like Pakistan. Many Israeli pilots still consider Mirage as the best fighter plane they ever had. Rafale carries cockpit electronics and new generation SENSORS only available on late model teen fighters exclusive to USA alone. As for the Rafael, I don't think Pakistan can afford it, J-10b is a better option. F-16 is already a 30 years old platform and it won't be feasible for another 30 despite of all the goodies Santa is offering.
One can expect this from a country making noise over a pigeon.
India still lives in the past despite acquiring nuclear weapons. Since both countries have acquired WMDs, such sales are mundane. India should grow up.
Don't see why India should be worried when we are buying Jets from France.
Pakistan has a right to buy them and U.S. to sell them !
None of India business, Pakistan buys these gadgets with own money, no worries for India
@Sunil , your information is immature. You are out of touch with reality.
@Subramaniam Tawakley I agree with you 100% why don't we try to get on with each other and except and respect each and try not to threaten each other, live and let live
Let's summon the French ambassador to express our disappointment on Rafale sale.
@Vivek actually every year new blocks of f-16 are released and if those f-35 were so superior to f-16 then why would f-35 fail the test it took against f-16 just google best aircraft by usa and then comment f-35 is only good in stealth not in a dogfight
We are the American alliance so its not a surprising. Why India feel the pain. That what surprising.
Come on India.....grow up now.
As long as we ( both India and Pak) do not understand the American interests( To enhance conflict in our region that helps arms race which helps their business ) we shall keep fighting like this. we need to understand as mature nations that we can not afford this arms race as our populations are under acute economic pressure and fighting for existence. And to move towards this we need to ensure we resolve all our pending issues amicably without supporting violence ( terrorism) of any kind. Once we do that we would not require so many weapons and that day perhaps US will have to find another buyer and leave us alone
$699 million down the drain. This money could have been spent on a million better things if only we could have worked out our differences.
Right while India is courting other countries for arms sales, like France, and is one of the worlds tope 3 spenders on arms, who is it to say whether others should be able to purchase weapons? In fact the weaponization of South Asia is a direct reaction to Indias own belligerent arms purchasing. So India should stop purchasing weapons itself, start spending money on its own citizens and it will see no arms race.
India should not wory they are big country and huge population and plenty resources five time bigger. They want Pakistan with begging bowl and asking Indias help like a big brother but world has changed.
Why worry about USA supplying these aircrafts when you have an impending deal to manufacture some of them.
@Rana guess what, Pakistan is looking to buy 6 Sukoi-35 fighters from Russia. After having betrayed Russia and jumped into US lap, the Rusdian bear decided to befriend Pakistan and make economic gains from CPEC.
@Sarai Alamgir well said, absolutely correct.
All this fuss about 8 planes?!!
@Rustom E Hind good ,do it. if US drops India, first issue that they have been suppressing for india in the UNSC , will come up for discussion and implementation- kashmir plebiscite.
Please write to PM-Pak to establish world class 1 or 2 Pak Inst.Techs &Pak Inst Med. Science with that money if not 30 to 40 K-12 schools in the Pak-Afgan border areas. So that wisdom will prevail and wilderness go way and society will improve for ever. US-aid & F16 fund is coming more than 1.5B$
@akram The name appears fake, not Indian. But really this is business. First they create markets ( for wars) and then they sell to their prospects. Sad that there is no market for peace.
Good luck to both of us. They are getting richer and we are paying on credit cards.
People are dying of poverty in both India and Pakistan and these guys are worried about buying f16s to kill their own brothers and sisters what a tragedy and somebody else is making the buck and their country is getting richer what a shame I hope we realize at least in this day and age
@Alam Russia will not welcome them they as they have come to know that India is a fair weather friend.
Another sign of Indian Supremacy Syndrome :)
@Subramaniam Takley Spoken like a true man. My thoughts exactly.
As an Indian, I am not disappointed nor worried...what US and Pakistan do is their bilateral matter and none of our business...let's chill...
Typical Indian mentality, Does Pakistan does these kind of things when India is buying military equipment. Grow up Indians and fight like man.
India should not be worried of any deal because they got Tejas, best ever jet made
India is a regional super power with economic and military muscle to match. These kind of childish reactions betray it's reality of a petty and insecure country. India is spending billions on military hardware. Let others spend if they wish. Grow up.
No nation in this world suffered because of fighting Terrorism and supporting US interest in this area except Pakistan. India was with Russians for decades and now wake up and realize that Soviets equipment is garbage.
India must also be very disappointed by knowing that Pakistani pilots are also well trained on super flying machine like Eurofighter Typhoon, Panavia Tornado IDS, F-15C Eagle and F-15E Strike Eagle of Royal Saudi Air force. Remember Royal Jordanian Air force fought along with PAF during the Indo Pak wars with their F-104 and Pakistani pilots flew Arab Hunters and Migs against Israeli air force in 67 and 73 Arab Israel war with great success.
USA will never develop its relationship at the price of sidelining Pakistan. When India was close with Russia, Pakistan strategic alliance with USA. This is US foreign policy. India try to digest it. You have just started and we are living with it for over 60 years.
It is good now we can differ with america on iran policy and further our interests in iran.
@Zak Grow up!
Indians hired the wrong guy to lobby. Ex Pakistani ambassador Haqani has lost all credibility in US.
India should show resolve in the 'matters' that trouble both our nations so we can spend billions of dollars on the betterment of people than on tools of war!
Both Ind/Pak are not very smart as the beneficiaries of our 'troubles' are the arms suppliers!!
I think Pakistan should summon the Indian Ambassador
Why summon US ambassador? summon your so called 'strong lobby' in US on which you spent lot of money.
@Dr. Farooq Khan this is the motive of every adversary, why blame India. You also create lot of noise for not including India in NSG.
How much love shown by India.We can see the frustration on their faces. They did every thing to stop this deal even our former ambassador tried to derail this .But finally Allhumdullah, we are won again. for those people who are very keen to continue dialogue with them.they aren't our friend we are only neighbor's.
India, mind your own business! Do you see us crying over your Rafale purchase? Get over the fact that Pak-US relations are independent of US-India relations.
Listens folks, our JF-17 Thunder has a much better technology than F-16 or outdated French Rafale... and for this very reason, India has backtracked from buying French Rafales.
Seriously !!!! Are we still living in the 70's ? where either country could whip up anti each other frenzy.....grow up India. As for you Pakistan: Use this money for a better cause....reduce deaths due to diseases, poverty....use the money to further education at 26% literacy rate the country is at the bottom of the ladder Stop wasting precious resources on buying weapons.
@Subramaniam Tawakley if all Indians start thinking as positive as you do then our problems would be quickly addressed.
Now if India's move has any impact on future procurements then sad part is Pakistan's silence when same Obama administration gave India special cell to expedite military dealings and transfer of tech to India!
Nation should see, what our PMs friend is doing with his country, despite having good time at Raiwind palace against the wishes of the majority of Pakistanis ..
@Prasad Now,thats the spirit.
India needs to cool it. Its has to go through congress.
India using their economic footprint to corner Pakistan. Pakistan should wakeup as next generation war will be fought through stronger economies and Pakistan is not even in the race till now. Surrendering to merit in oppose to family is a brave men's job and Pakistan unfortunately not brave enough but Indians do.
I am an Indian myself and do not see the rationale behind this. It's rather childish for Indian establishment to react this way, when we are ourselves in process of acquiring fighter jets from France and spending billions on arms purchase each year.
Modi's hypocrasy and deviousness exposed. He came to Lahore uninvited, then expresses friendship , now complains to US about 8 fighter planes behind Pakistan's back. Modi cannot be trusted.
Well, I think Modi govt has no clue when it comes to dealing with other countries. From when has a sale of 8 fighter jets started worrying India. Every country has right to defend its dignity and sovereignty. The Govt of India should know that Pakistan is our neighbor and it feels the same threat from India as we feel from Pakistan or China. After all Neighbor's envy is owner's pride ;).
By raising a big fuss over a small deal India is playing a shrewd diplomacy. Just 8 Planes, that too 40 years old are not going make an iota of a difference to India. But why stay silent? By playing victim India is pushing Americans on defensive. They always use dilly dallying tactics while negotiating transfer of highly advance technologies to India. Americans desperately need India's support in the Asia-Pacific region. Just pile up the pressure on them, because it will come in handy during the future Indo-American negotiations on several different deals. India's furious reaction should be seen on the above context.
US needs to introspect the ethics of 'lobbyists' in a democracy. These lobbyists work for foreign governments and their interests, receiving money to do the bidding, and not in interest of American people. Every two bit country starts calling US ambassador on issues that have nothing to do with them. The American Ambassador must have told indians to belt it and don't interfere in US internal matters.
@Subramaniam Tawakley well said.
@Zak then You should go to old pal Russia, looks like you forgot them for new found friends the US. Seasonal friends.
@Lafanga -- Your assessment is subject to change!
@lafanga -- WHO will pay? WHERE is the money?
then they will sell to india then to pakistan then to india,, this is how it works
I don't see any reason for India to worry as they are at least 10 times conventionally superior. Every country has right to decide what is good for them. If India requires they can go ahead with recently announced 5th gen joint project with Russia as no one in the region has 5th gen aircraft.
Sunil - The Americans have duped everyone here. Aren't you familiar with their foreign policies? There is only one policy and that is the American interest comes first. Sooner India learns that sooner India will be tow in the line.
In India Pakistan fight, US is doing his business. Why people dont understand. If India/Pakistan problem resolved US will loose significant revenue.
@Nadeem US has been very keen to sell these or other latest aircrafts which India declined because of non technology transfer hence they went with Russia for much advanced Sukhoi SU30 and Raffale from France and both of them are with technology transfer to Hindustan aeronautics Ltd.
@Rustom E Hind India shud mind its own buissness and stop acting like Superpower. China Russia US, Japan, etc are all ahead of India and Pakistan isnt too faar off economically and military wise equally.
can this take on 5 th gen fighters of india,japan,russia ?
When india is buying weapons from France ( deal worth 3600 plus million $)and other countries , why they should be concern, talk about hypocrisy. Lets do a peace deal and try to demilitarize the region and spend money on poor people.
I like the Indian sense of humor. Good joke.
Shame on BJP's Govt for their this insecure, intolerant act.
india is shopping worldover and for arms not to mention its local production.
'disappointed' but why?
India stay worry even Pakistan Buy *Stick *
@Irfan Baloch It is not just 8 planes.. it is their ability to carry nukes. India wouldn't object to F-16's that does not have nuke capability.
We must buy not 100's but 1000's more F16's. Pakistan First, PAKISTAN ZINDABAD
@Sunil wishful thinking!
@Brave good idea and summon Mr Haqani for having failed miserably
Toys that we will never use. This money could have been spent on equipping an existing Engineering university
India should be happy. We wasted another millions on arms
Pakistan argument is that they need these to fight terrorism and want the ability to make precision strikes. Pakistan has a strong case for the need of these expensive toys. one reality about these planes is that the spare parts they need is extremely important plus they will be very much useless if after a couple of years US refuse to supply the parts.
@Vorshal It us none of your business Mr Vorshal is it??. It is like my neighbour buys a new car and I start worrying about their ability to pay.
@Mohit Fair comment my friend
@M.M.Sherazi More importantly is the facts that any thing good for Pakistan is always considered bad by Indian's narrow minded politicians. '
On one hand India says it is the super power of this region and on the other hand afraid of on 8 F-16 jet fighters.
India Pakistan animosity is just a joke. They should think of their people rather than buying destructive weapons and building nuclear weapons.
They tell us that their military might is for China and Pakistan is of no consequence. But it took only eight air crafts to show their insecurities.
Pakistan Air Force has been flying F-16s for over 30 years and has 80 in inventory. Obama Administration's decision to provide another 8 F-16s to Pakistan is in the best interest of both countries being closely allied during the Cold War for over 60 years. Pakistan is also the front-line state fighting the global War on Terror.
Therefore, India's objection to the US government's decision is not only absurd, but malicious. India should not try to determine American foreign policy? Pakistan did "not" object to India acquiring 36 most advanced Rafale jets from France worth $8 billion. India's duplicity and diplomatic machinations are now exposed.
We should not be surprised by this news as this is what India is supposed to do. We must do whatever we can to safeguard interests of Pakistan
India is spending $billions to purchase French fighters. 8 F-16 by PAF is threat toIndia ?
Childish behavior by India. Can any one stop any one for building up its defense? Tomorrow they'll say don't eat healthy food else you'll become stronger than us and threaten us!
@Subramaniam Tawakley
Men of understanding and rationale are there in every colour, culture and creed.
Very appropriate comment. All of us have something good to take away from it.
8 F16s just 10% of our existing fleet. We already have enough to mouth breaking response capability.
@Sunil I remember Modi was also disappointed on CPEC, even went to China. but the fact is US need us and we need US.
Weldone Pakistan. Move ahead.
Only one to benefit is USA - more arms sold more powerful they become. Bigger bang for the buck if these money were spent by Pakistan on reducing poverty or improving infrastructure.
@Sunil the senate can be vetoed by the president
US will sell planes but hold back spare parts at will and at hour of need. Also this to prevent Russian sales.
the deal would make India extra cautious about US & its role as partner. India might counter balance it with new relations & deals with other countries which, in turn, could be counter productive for US. This may also cost US democrats with India campaigning for Republicans.
Is india starting interferring in US policy making process?
@Rana great strategy? Indias economy is 10× bigger Einstein!
India disappointment psychological, but uncalled for, US & Pakistan have special relationship as regards to combating terrorists,and Pakistan has very sucessfully confronted the terrorists and almost fully defeated it,and soon will completely irradicate it. But ofcourse prevention is better than cure.Hence to keep itself always prepared any eventuality it will keep purchasing the defense equipments it need. BTW India must know that F-16s were very helpful in combating terrorists in Zarb-e-Azb operation.
Such a childish and silly behavior by India.....Am I shocked...No
Pakistan already have an impressive fleet of F16 for a long time now. These eight will make no dent..Its US who wants to give them...and not Pakistan who is desperate for them...
Should not Pakistan summon French and Russian Ambassadors as well? Should not Pakistan protest to US for selling nuclear technology to India violating her own policies and laws?
India mistook US flirting with love. Real world is not an indian movie. US will go with its interests, indian lobby or no indian lobby.
height of hypocrisy as one of largest arms buyer crying over this small deal of just eight jets
@Faraz @Rustom E Hind and then India will be reminded of its place by USA.
usa could not show iran its place it will be able to show india its place?
remember on Iranian embargo usa pressurized india a lotbut india still went ahead and purchased oil from iran bec it was in our intrest plus we have Russia to supply hardware and Israel to give us hi tech weapons
not mentioning iran uae and Saudi ready to supply oil infact toady uae crown prince signed a security deal with india in delhi
Well, the deal has not been finally approved by the Senate and it has still to cross many hurdles. India is likely to prevail to needle this deal.
Indians buy billion of dollars worth of military hardware from across the globe. Pakistan never protests. Why the Indian leadership is getting jittery when their Defence budget is record high, amounting to $40bn, compared with Pakistan’s Defence budget of roughly $7bn, which is like peanuts.
@Sunil India is stock piling all the latest arsenal. What will eight make a difference?
Why pakistan need F-16 , you earlier said that JF-17 is better than F-16
8 planes big deal...
Good to see India always check its neighbor like super power nation do. India doesn't bother much as it have S-400 which can shot F 35 & J31
All of Pakistani initiatives in defense and counter terrorism are equally the need of the US. How can they ask Pakistan to do more without required more inputs for doing more than what they already do?
Pakistan needs a robust air force for its defense which should not disturb India. However, both India and Pakistan should sign a no war pact and work diligently in a timely manner to normalize relations between them which shall include but not limited to free trade and open bilateral investment regimes; visa-free visits for the people of both countries; technical cooperation in the IT, Mining, Agricultural and power sectors as well as joint team work on water resources management and poverty reduction programs
@WiseMan -- What about 80 PAF F16s who can carry nukes for India?
By the way, If it EVER come to that, Pakistan will deliver nukes to India without using any aircraft. Do you know that?
Learn about Pakistan's missile capabilities. 70 percent of Pakistan's defense in now Missile based. Completely re engineered concept and very innovative.
Do the Indians truely believe that PAF can ground entire IAF fleet with just 8 F-16s ? For US, its just another 'gesture' of friendship. For India, its just another 'spanner' in the works that Pakistan undertakes. For Pakistan, its just another 'show-off' to public that we're on great terms with the US administration. End-result : no news.
@Subramaniam Tawakley
Salute to you mate for this comment. Cannot agree more to you.
Guys it is customary to lodge a protest against each other whenever either Pakistan or India buys any military hardware . So why sweat about it ? The diplomats are doing their job , they have to justify their positions too . While the countries keep going about doing their business irrespective of any concerns/disappointments whatsoever .
we all have heard the story of two cats and a monkey. both india and pakistan need to give its citizens roti ,kappa or makaan……may god bless both india and pak with some sense.
What else can it do?
It's the arming of Pakistan at so cheap cost that rattles nerves , rafael is in billions and f16 in millions .cheap and effective all round .8 are not the matter , it's effects are . It's a very potent wepons compared to the older versions .1 is good for at least 4 other aircrafts due to wepons suit and countermeasures , many time a thorn may be more trouble then a nail as you got to tweeze it out of flesh with the needle soo it's double trouble like this new version f 16 that's electronically cloked and yet can fight hidden , very difficult to detect and defeat due to deceptive and effective electronic coutermeasure . Surely taliban don't have any airforce so the protest is bound to happen.
@Vivekbut f35 will not go on sale any time soon. Not even India will get it. It's too new and these f16s r upgrade d ones as opposed to old ones.
The idea behind summoning the ambassador and expressing displeasure is to show the US that double talk on terror will be watched and noted and will have consequences on further military deals with India. This has little to do with F-16 more to do with building diplomatic leverage for the future US president.
@Rustom E Hind India is not buying any equipment from USA to begin with.
Thru this deal usa has also given a cue that she will also sell f35s to pakistan
soon they will sell advanced version to India as they did this before. Its simple business !!!
@Sunil typical immature thiking, about time that you grow up the sooner the better.
India panics each time Pakistan grows militarily, economically or politically. Pakistan is not a slave to what India wants or doesn't want it to do. We are an independent country, fully capable of defending our geographical and ideological frontiers even against all odds. India should learn to live with this reality and stop mingling in our internal affairs. God bless Pakistan !
@Vivek So go and strike a deal for 300 F - 35s .......... after a successful deal of 36 x Rafales......... why are you crying over just 8 aircrafts????
We Indians must grow up and face the reality. All our efforts to undermine Pakistan have gone no where. Leave them and take care of our problems.
@Subramaniam Tawakley . Well said. Sub-continent should be nest of peace and people should be free to travel like people do between Canada and USA. Lets join the efforts for peace.
Democrats should pay for this in coming US Presidential elections. Let's wipe off all the blue states in the west and north-east into blue. They need to learn a lesson.
Will India also summon Russian ambassador if Russia annonces sale of SU 35 Super Flanker to Pakistan?
@Sunil There is no problem when India goes all out to buy French Fighter jets in dozens, Russian jets, British arms and jets, American arms and jets, Nuclear Power Plants etc just to name few. But there is a problem when Pakistan buys these arms in significantly few in numbers. The old habit of "Jealousy" will never die specially when it comes to Pakistan. If Indians consider Pakistanis to be of the same stock and brothers, then why there is jealousy?
@ummer your roughly in right direction, but wrong analysis. US knows india is broke , but what US wants is to use India as a guinea bag against China. For Pakistan, the U.S. wants it to do its work in fighting the Taliban who are fighting US in Afghanistan, like Haqqani network. Basically, Pakistan for muscle and India for dummy.
Thank you USA, we Pakistani people thank you for understanding our needs and helping us fight the menace of terrorism, India on the one hand fanning terrorism in Pakistan and when USA is helping us by giving us the weapons Indian disappointment is understandable.The first batch of F16 arrived in mid 80's, how many of them were used against India? India needs to grow up and show the world that its a responsible country and not a spoiled Child who is unhappy and jealous because other kids got toys.
@Abid Your statement is laughable; if Chinese airplanes are better than American, then why waste money for the same price 24 jets can be acquired from China.
As an Indian I don't understand the stance of my government. We know how fantastic our relationship is with Pakistan. So if they feel they need 8 or 80 planes they will buy them. What's the point of this drama about getting US ambassador for conveying displeasure!! We can buy/ arm twist for another deal or leverage some other advantage.
Pakistan you go ahead and enjoy your joyride.
This is just diplomacy by India and US. We have to make some noise and that is it. Same as Pakistan also do. US have to do business but do not say it but make it that these planes are for fighting against terrorists but everybody know it is not for it. You don't fight terrorists with F16's and you already have plenty of it.
whatever the reason..i am happy India in a position to summon USA ambassador ..feeling proud Not many countries have guts to do that.
I think this is what US wants. India and Pakistan keep buying arms from them so that we both keep fighting and they keep earning. Isn't this an eye opener for us? Hope both the countries focus on spending on Education, Health and Poverty
@Worth_Commenting - thanks for realistic comments. This is all about this protests.
@Sunil hahaha. are you sure? lol
@Subramaniam Tawakley totally agree with you mate
Totally agree with you mate
@Subramaniam Tawakley Hope we have people like you on both the sides
@Arsalan Khan This deal is around 600 million dollars. Play by the logic.Only a few days ago US approved 800 million dollar aid to Pakistan and now they want to sell their 8 F16 to your country for 600 million dollars. Today Pakistan is in 90 billion dollars in debit.US is playing a very dirty game because they want these planes to be used to promote their agenda at the cost of ur country.
friends.. india knew things b4 tweeting. so chill
@sk -- And US may counter balance by reducing BPO to India. India's so called prosperity is not due to economic strength of its own population but entirely dependant upon BPO by USA and Europe due to their own weak economic situation
India is no economic power of its own. Its Citizens cannot afford world class products and services (only 1 percent can do at this time) if US and Europe stop outsourcing. Think again
@Irfan Baloch Actually this protest by India is a routine process. Sale of 8 planes will not change anything on the ground. India's conventional military power is significantly more than that of Pakistan. With the advent of the private sector in defense manufacture, many of whom are collaborating with well established defense manufacturers in the west, India is poised to become a source of world class defense equipment to the world.
Pakistan must match India's defence budget, and it should spend more.
@Brave You should buy more advanced planes and weapons from USA. Just ask the saudis and they will help you out.
Best Comment by @World Watchers Indeed America and EU countries playing games. They will keep selling arms to us so that we keep biting each other like dogs. If they were our real friends they should rather stop selling arms to these two countries and force them onto table so that human lives can be saved and poverty can be eradicated. Peace shall prevail. Amin
@Zak and who cares
This is a diplomatic win for Pakistan on two fronts. We got the planes AND made india spend millions to stop the sale. :D
France sale aircraft to India Pakistan dont say nothing because Pakistan have maturity
Mr Jaishankar, a little bit of sporting spirit is called for in this situation, you've ordered some such toys from the French recently, America has tossed a few over to Pakistan. Why would you object?
This is quite funny news, cat calling the kettle black!!!!
We need that money to build school and hospitals in Pakistan. USA, please reject the sale.
I'm sure USA will in turn sell weapons to India. Mission accomplished by selling to weapons to both parties !!!
Pls pls don't buy these planes spend that money to develop indigenous avionics and weaponry
What a drama being played. American on their side, after so much noise in their congress, are releasing the jets as if some favour is done for Pakistan. Indian on their part are doing these shenanigans as if they are some super duper power while it seems that both America and India are on board on this as mere 8 F16s will not dent Indian air force in any shape or form while they got huge fleet of Su30 mig29 mirage2000 and now upcoming rafaels. On Pakistan part anyone with slight common sense will not be impressed by these silly manovours. We need to get Russian Su30 in big numbers and build new blocks of jf17 on fast pace
chinese plane are good enough for pakistan, no need for amer junk
A Thought!!!
What happens after two "Ignorant Parties" get a weapons support by third party ?
Had Pakistan summoned the US envoy, when US was helping India to access in NSG group. The world has not seeing this India increase their Nuclear capability day by day by this access, which can imbalance the region noble. 800 F-16 instead of 8 F-16 cannot pay the price which Pakistan have paid in US war.
Pakistanis should not start celebrating, there is still many a slip between cup and lip. Influential Republican Senaters have put this deal on hold as of now.
@Dr. Farooq Khan Can't you see....we are already blessed :)
@Sunil Sorry buddy , Senate will always pass as it has always passed . They know very well that we are fighting their war !
@Subramaniam Tawakley Thats sound a good plan !
@Pakistani Is india even allowed to do this??? - Hell yeah
India should have summoned Pakistani ambassador and pleaded Pakistan , not to manufacture JF-17 thunder .
@Rustom E Hind India doesn't, FYI! India has Russian planes thus the inferior quality
There was no need to put such a provocative head line for this news item. For sure no one is disappointed as the arms race will continue at the expense of the ordinary civilians.
Dont understand why India has to behave like a little kid.
F16 to counter terrorism? How ridiculous is that?
@Rustom E Hind You'll see that happening. Airbus will get more orders and India will buy its defence hardware from the French,Russians and the Israelis.
Let us see. Who is right and who is wrong? It's a political game.
@Ailly I really don't know what you talking about. CPEC project will not be successful. There are so many reasons. If you make project like this there should be investment from different countries but you people concentrating on China.
@JK that is how india nips things in the bud
american business in india will take a hit, its a matter of time
@Asif Iqbal. Dream on
F16 is very expensive, almost 88 million dollars for one plane. I suggest government should inject this money in F17 thunder project.
Oh please India grow up for God sake! I am tired of India's whining!
@Sunil haha keep dreaming Sunil.
The correct Indian approach would be to impose a specific anti terror tax on imports from US. India should also look at some specific measures like non acceptance on American patents in certain areas , for example pharma. The only way India can get Americans worried is by targeting their financial interests. Pleading with non entities like Verma is wasting time.
I hope these new F-16s for $699 million will help pakistan to end poverty, load shedding and education crisis. Very excited
Who is the ultimate winner. Both India and Pakistan are spending billions on weapons while their masses are living under poverty. Keep it up boys our couple of more generation would keep eating grass.
Comments (305) Closed
Disappointment may turn into frustration, India should mind its own business.
India shouldn't worry as the senate wont pass the sale of F-16's.
Indians taken it to heart claiming to be a super power and crying over 8 planes and summoning the US ambassador? this is new. themselves they are buying billion dollars worth of military equipment from across the globe and neither Pakistan or any other country protested. how insecure and petty Indian leadership is>
@Sunil O yeah we will see to that.
@Sunil Just wait and watch, the deal is almost done and there is nothing India can do about it other then summoning the ambassador.
India's main agenda is to not let Pakistan be able to defend itself so that she can treat it like a boss. Indian media treats Pakistan in a really disrespectful way and Indians totally feel that their government is doing right. God bless India.
Grow Up Guys . And Plz Let Us live In Peace
off course Indians spend millions to stop the sale but in vain. Indian air force likes to have 3:1 equation. therefore every time pakistan buys a jet IAF will have to buy three. Good strategy by Pakistan.
Why are we Indians always focusing on such negative matters. We are disappointed because our efforts to sideline Pakistan have been consistently failing. Pakistan is a reality the world cannot do away with. Let us focus on reducing poverty and doing away with rampant corruption in our country.
This is all drama.
@Subramaniam Tawakley You are a great man , I wish there were more of us on both sides bro ........
@Subramaniam Tawakley ThankGod Still There Are Courageous Enough To Acknowledge Reality
One can afford these aircraft or that tank , but none can afford war . (My own view not directed to any specific country)
One of the largest importer of arms is alarmed when pakistan gets to buy 8 f16 fighter airplanes! How ironic!
One can afford these aircraft or that tank but one can't afford a war ( my own view not directed towards any specific country)
The anti Pakistan lobbies dont seem to be working funded by Delhi, infront of the cameras and media the US may be harsh towards Pakistan, but behind closed doors, the US administration understands Pakistan needs and priorities. US knows that in this region, having Pakistan on your side is always a good thing, and with CPEC, the US can also take advantage of their relationship with China, and we all know that its only due to Indias population that the US and their business are keen to work closely with Indian, Imagine if the US tapped even a percentage of the China marmet, India should be worried. India should let Pak live in peace and worry about its own issues arrising from corruption and many independant movements.
India is playing Washington. Pakistan is playing the Washington. What's the big deal? Turnabout is fair play. Pakistan and India want to play Russia off the United States like a ping pong ball. The United States' real allies don't play games.
We love you America.pakistan is very much grateful to you. America is our all weather friend.
In July 2006, the United States Congress amended U.S. law to accommodate civilian nuclear trade with India; thus the two countries have an understanding over a Civilian Nuclear Deal and the NSG. Pakistan has not received the same treatment--so, this weapons deal is sort of an appeasement and also a reward/inducement for Pak's ongoing support in the region (esp. in the Afghan matters).
india should not buy any aircraft from usa as a protest that including civilian boeing india plans 500 billion dollar civilian aircraft in the next 20 year so all private airlines in india should be pressured not to by us aircraft only European or other countries, if not haress them income tax issue sales tax issue ect ect
no neulear plants from usa only Russia , france japan ect
that is the only way to make usa listen to our concern
@Lafanga : Then what about China.That means America replaced china. Am i true?
Can any one tell if there is any chance of U turn if any by US due to this??
Not only India we are disappointed as well, we expected F35s with stealth capability to evade enemy radar, with F16s war on terror will not be so successful as US expects.
What is the problem with INDIA? grow up please, and avoid this negative politics
Never get attached to any body or any one, because attachment leads to expectation and expectation leads to disappointment. Pity- India
Deal is not final yet. It's on the table. It should be approved by the Senate. Meanwhile India is also negotiating with U.S. on this issue. However, I feel personally that F-16 is not modern era aircraft. Therefore India should not be serious about that deal.
The Sale Has been approved as Potential sale not Finalised so nothing can be said
Horrible and evil politics by India as usual! Mind you own business!
There is no reason for India to moan over the deal, if Pak have managed to get F-16's form US thats their diplomatic victory. India have other things to look into and should bother about India's economy , poverty, women empowerment, an increasing threat from China and most importantly try to get the benefits of low crude oil price to the masses. This is just a diplomatic stunt but as an Indian I won't lose sleep over this as we definitely have more important things to worry about. Good luck Pak for the new fighters, enjoy them.
@Rustom E Hind You seriouly wrote that. I never like to participate in anti-peace conversation but india is overstepping. You guys should really mind your own business i guess. We are the ones losing countless valuable lives by the hours.
America will do what is in its national interest no matter if India or anyone else likes it or not.
@Bajirao And who made you the modern combat expert. Grow up man.
@Subramaniam Tawakley
Thank you brother for speaking some sense. Agree with you
We know where and when to use F16 against whom
All a trick by US and India. There has to be a hidden agenda. Indian origin getting deeply rooted in US politics.
No need of disappointment. This move of US will make every Indian to work hard for beloved India. Nobody can stop India to prosper as long as Nationalists like Mr. Modi, Mr. Parikar, Mr. Dovel list goes on, will be in government. Remember guys, everytime we are hurt, we come smarter and stronger. Time to build and strengthen self reliant India in health, education, technology. World will bow to us. Congrats Pakistan on new US jets.
@Sunil
Mr. Are u in the senate comity
@Subramaniam Tawakley well said
@Rustom E Hind that is hilarious Rustom my friend
Indians love to tell Pakistanis that Pakistan does not matter to them. Then events like this happen and the mask slips. If an Alien came to earth and watched this tamasha I wonder what he would think?
America is great nation. Well peaceful and lovely country. A true friend. Americans like Pakistanis very much.
US has proved it is a loyal friend, now time for Russia to deliver those promised Su35, next generation S500 and be in Pakistan's good books.
@Bajirao i seriously urge you to search the facts even now f-16 is the 3rd best fighter by usa there is a thing called google search there
@Oneeb what is wrong with india? the indians! that is what is wrong with india.
if more indians were like SUBRAMANIAM TAWAKLEY, there would be no conflict.
How sad all the money went into lobbying against the sale cry baby cry, same willl happen in indias investment in Afghanistan, Indians shouldve learned something from Soviets and its demise
@Subramaniam Tawakley Respect sir
India wants to make all defenseless to dictate. Why worry as every superpower stop to get detterent capability.
Pakistan bought 8 jets from US and India summoned US ambassador??? Is india even allowed to do this??? Seriously??? This is showing who supports terrorism in the region the indians do not want Pakistan to defend their selves. They know Pakistanis are stronger than them. So they are made while they buy everything from Russia, France, usa,Israel, Germany etc Pakistan never says anything because it's none of their business but india just crossed the line today by summoning usa ambassador.
@Upwala Its a done deal. American administrations dont announce something like this openly only to take it back because India pressured it hahaha. Come on. Learn how US politics work.
Is the big elephant with with defence budget of 40 billion annually scared of Pakistan who has defence budget of 7 billion?
@PAKISTAN no its not! Its one of the most sold American Aircrafts but is outdated as of todays F-35s
US think tank getting worried with the Pakistani and Russia bonhomie. Guess Putin is a grand master in chess! :)
poor Indians, so insecure...
Now that's pure frustration. Trust me this Modi is not in mood of peace. He is trying his best to hurt Pakistan in every possible way.
India has no reason to fret at all. This are regular all american f16s. F16s are good all weather fighter jets. Pakistan saw a need to buy them and so they bought them, and if India needs them, India can buy them too.
@Subramaniam Tawakley Your statement shows that India has realistic stock in its public.
Unfortunately, people sitting in your foreign department go absolutely illogical whenever they see any defense deal between Pakistan and United States.
We must do whatever America wants us to do because it helped us very much, so we should return something by serving it. God bless you America
Cheeky hearts, how afraid they are. I think this is obvious reaction,
@Vishnu Shankar You are spot on Vishnu. I wish intelligent people like you would also be the part of your ministry of foreign affairs.
People were expressing open dissent to Indo-American nuculer deal... And now when we are disappointed, they are telling us to grow up.. Ironic
So when America stops the sale, everyone is going to think it's because of India's pressure only. And all Pakistani friends will be disappointed and unhappy with India, again.
@Sunil - Pakistan's counter-terrorism drive is not only in India's interest but the whole region and the world. So don't be short-sighted. Besides, every country needs to have proper defence just as India does!
@Sunil: Grow up. This shows how afraid you all are. Pakistan never bothered to even comment save object to 36 Rafale sale to India. India wants to be major power yet they are afraid of eight F-16 sale to Pakistan, LOL.
Pakistan have jets that more powerful and better than F-16s. China and Pakistan re-made one , when a American F-16 intact crashed,
If india buy no problem why not Pakistan????
I would sleep now happily.
From Pakistani kabbotar to F16 , Indians alwys have a problem with everything related to pakistan
India gripped by all sorts of "intolerance" under Modi.
well US playing games .now they will sale more f16 or better equipment to india.. and making sure that ind and pak will remain enemies. ..
@Deepak Kumar Pakistan never protested over Info US nuclear deal. Only asked for the same deal with Pakistan. India can order 800 F35 we don't bother.
@Rustom E Hind. Your concern? How come India is allowed to enrich Uranium on the pretext of NSG yet when Pakistan buys planes to defend, you have concern. Guess you use your guns as walking sticks.
India should summon Obama because ambassador can not do anything.
This news brought a smile on my face :) hehe
@Arsalan Khan Not yet.
@Rustom E Hind ...really you mean it? Add one more reactionary step. All Indian students should stop going to US for studying, and opt for Russia.
I think India should come up from its anti Pak approach because if you wanna become big power you have feel good with your neighbours.. Well fact is that US now plays with both countries; with Pak it has to counter terrorism policy, but with India US wants economic intersts.. So USA has intelligent diplomatic policy with nation's .. They know that India will never support them militarily in curbing terrorism though claiming high. For example India has always neutral policy towards international conflicts. India can never send its troops post US withdrawal.. For Pakistan leadership it is important that they understand fighter gets can not make you progress but they that went to progress that should tell west to open their market for trade
@Subramaniam Tawakley A positive attitude !!
Big country but narrow mind, what a pity?
I am a Pakistani and i bleed green, but this is also true that i have many Indians as a close friend and when we spend time together we enjoy equally, feel no difference in comparison to any other nationality.
I wish we Pakistani and Indians value our relationship more and try to grow together instead of pulling each other in any given opportunity.
@Subramaniam Tawakley i agree with both india and pakistan should move forward with peace and stability in the region . we are neighbors
US is supplying military hardware to Pakistan for decades, so why so much hype now. US supported Pakistan in every war, I can't understand what made new Delhi worry about this deal.
India, world's 2nd most populous country having one of the largest army in the world with huge defence spending, is afraid of much smaller Pakistan. And still they boast about their strength. .
Poor India....with all the arsenal is has been collecting, it still worries about Pakistan acquiring merely eight F16s!
no need of disappointment,every country has its own independent foreign policy.pakistan still provides strategic depth for US as it is the gateway to west and central asia.moreover,it seems a desperate attempt on part of US to win over Pakistan fom increasing chinese influence.India has a long way to go to before it is in a position to influence the key decisions of others.india should work on reinvigorating its ties with china and russia and should not form a part of any block which is aimed against any particular country.
@Zak You can place orders with India for 5/6 generation planes. Remember Indo Russia JV working on best fighter in world.
Two greedy governments with loads of overtly emotional people... And some creepy people toasting cheers for their business deal!
I don't know why india should be woried, it has a fantastic line up of fighter jets itself, so i'm, surprised they actually felt that 8 F-16's would be worrying for india. But as i have said times before, there will be no war, because if it does, it will be nuclear war and there are no winners there, thats the truth of the matter, so perhaps firing on LOC and even a daring attack on posts might be familiar, there will be no war just as yet. Kashmir will be the pinnacle to any war and peace in the region.
sooner they will disappointed to see CPEC success.... they will call Chinese ambassador and protest.
yesterday indian media highlighted IS/ Daesh opened an office in INDIA.... whom indians should protest about this ? ISIS in Syria or Talibans in Afg ?.
The US must realise Pakistan's sacrifices in the current anti-terror war and continue unhindered military aid to Pakistan. It should not repeat history of 1971 when a lame pretext was made by the then US administration that the Senate impeded delivery of an armada carrying military equipment for Pakistan.The US president has the exclusive authority to override any decree or bill or resolution passed by the Congress if he thinks it in the interest of America. The Indian regime should not be disappointed by such a normal deal and analyse the emerging volatile regional scenario. in case we fail to block way of the militants then demise of the New Delhi is not a far cry.
@Gulfraz Like China worries every time India makes a deal saying it will be harmful for peace in the region, China even blocked India's S400 deal with Russia.
Pakistan should have summoned the French ambassador to express 'displeasure' over the Rafaele jets deal. But clearly our leaders don't have the spine....
@Suniel Yes, no war.
@RÖY - Good one!
America !! thank you.
The world's largest buyers of weapons has the problem over Pakistan receiving just 8 aircrafts!!!!!!!!
@Subramaniam Tawakley Very well said Sir, nice to see some one reasonable from the other side. Bravo.
But I thought India wanted Pakistan to tackle terrorism and PAF has been using these jets to attack terrorists targets. So what is the problem here?
Do they want us to fight terrorism or not? If yes, with outdated equipment only. Seriously confusing.
Will ever Pakistan do the same ? NO
@Sandeep . We can have more than one All Weather friend. Cant we?
A happy Pakistan is a disappointed India! There is your two nation theory!
@Sunil Read again. The process is now past that point.
@Rustom E Hind and then India will be reminded of its place by USA.
I thought Indian had a strong lobbying caucus at the Capitol Hill? Will Pak ever be able to summon US ambassador like India did? I doubt it.
@Bajirao oh yes the only modern era aircrafts are your Tejas....
Why is India 'disappointed' on this? Pakistan is not as aggressive or 'immature' as India to use them against any other country. Need is to use them in fight against terror or maintain the defense. Also, India must go back and check their own nuclear agreements with US that Pak doesnt have. Show some tolerance as the world has moved forward.
Summoning of the US ambassador is only a gesture setting a diplomatic benchmark. The Indian purpose is to show a strong reaction to its erstwhile ally, the USA. This has definite diplomatic value so that when America decides to engage Pakistan more vigorously or advanced weaponry is to be sold to Pak in the future, the US would try to gauge the possible Indian reaction and the ramifications it would have on Indo-US relations. It would gauge the Indian reaction based on the benchmark the Indians have set. Therefore, as a Pakistani, I would say that it is a brilliant diplomatic move by the Indians and Pakistan needs to learn better diplomacy from its neighborhood as well. Dawn please publish this, thanks.
Only 8?... Pakistan needs to replace all of its 70 F-16 fighter jets.
IAF spent 6 months trialing Rafale & Typhoon & F16 the best ever F16 BUILT (half a generation ahead of block52) and F16 lost their competition on technical ability. Israel was a Mirage user and even used it in combat but preferred F-16 because of military aid and political reasons just like Pakistan. Many Israeli pilots still consider Mirage as the best fighter plane they ever had. Rafale carries cockpit electronics and new generation SENSORS only available on late model teen fighters exclusive to USA alone. As for the Rafael, I don't think Pakistan can afford it, J-10b is a better option. F-16 is already a 30 years old platform and it won't be feasible for another 30 despite of all the goodies Santa is offering.
One can expect this from a country making noise over a pigeon.
India still lives in the past despite acquiring nuclear weapons. Since both countries have acquired WMDs, such sales are mundane. India should grow up.
Don't see why India should be worried when we are buying Jets from France.
Pakistan has a right to buy them and U.S. to sell them !
None of India business, Pakistan buys these gadgets with own money, no worries for India
@Sunil , your information is immature. You are out of touch with reality.
@Subramaniam Tawakley I agree with you 100% why don't we try to get on with each other and except and respect each and try not to threaten each other, live and let live
Let's summon the French ambassador to express our disappointment on Rafale sale.
@Vivek actually every year new blocks of f-16 are released and if those f-35 were so superior to f-16 then why would f-35 fail the test it took against f-16 just google best aircraft by usa and then comment f-35 is only good in stealth not in a dogfight
We are the American alliance so its not a surprising. Why India feel the pain. That what surprising.
Come on India.....grow up now.
As long as we ( both India and Pak) do not understand the American interests( To enhance conflict in our region that helps arms race which helps their business ) we shall keep fighting like this. we need to understand as mature nations that we can not afford this arms race as our populations are under acute economic pressure and fighting for existence. And to move towards this we need to ensure we resolve all our pending issues amicably without supporting violence ( terrorism) of any kind. Once we do that we would not require so many weapons and that day perhaps US will have to find another buyer and leave us alone
$699 million down the drain. This money could have been spent on a million better things if only we could have worked out our differences.
Right while India is courting other countries for arms sales, like France, and is one of the worlds tope 3 spenders on arms, who is it to say whether others should be able to purchase weapons? In fact the weaponization of South Asia is a direct reaction to Indias own belligerent arms purchasing. So India should stop purchasing weapons itself, start spending money on its own citizens and it will see no arms race.
India should not wory they are big country and huge population and plenty resources five time bigger. They want Pakistan with begging bowl and asking Indias help like a big brother but world has changed.
Why worry about USA supplying these aircrafts when you have an impending deal to manufacture some of them.
@Rana guess what, Pakistan is looking to buy 6 Sukoi-35 fighters from Russia. After having betrayed Russia and jumped into US lap, the Rusdian bear decided to befriend Pakistan and make economic gains from CPEC.
@Sarai Alamgir well said, absolutely correct.
All this fuss about 8 planes?!!
@Rustom E Hind good ,do it. if US drops India, first issue that they have been suppressing for india in the UNSC , will come up for discussion and implementation- kashmir plebiscite.
Please write to PM-Pak to establish world class 1 or 2 Pak Inst.Techs &Pak Inst Med. Science with that money if not 30 to 40 K-12 schools in the Pak-Afgan border areas. So that wisdom will prevail and wilderness go way and society will improve for ever. US-aid & F16 fund is coming more than 1.5B$
@akram The name appears fake, not Indian. But really this is business. First they create markets ( for wars) and then they sell to their prospects. Sad that there is no market for peace.
Good luck to both of us. They are getting richer and we are paying on credit cards.
People are dying of poverty in both India and Pakistan and these guys are worried about buying f16s to kill their own brothers and sisters what a tragedy and somebody else is making the buck and their country is getting richer what a shame I hope we realize at least in this day and age
@Alam Russia will not welcome them they as they have come to know that India is a fair weather friend.
Another sign of Indian Supremacy Syndrome :)
@Subramaniam Takley Spoken like a true man. My thoughts exactly.
As an Indian, I am not disappointed nor worried...what US and Pakistan do is their bilateral matter and none of our business...let's chill...
Typical Indian mentality, Does Pakistan does these kind of things when India is buying military equipment. Grow up Indians and fight like man.
India should not be worried of any deal because they got Tejas, best ever jet made
India is a regional super power with economic and military muscle to match. These kind of childish reactions betray it's reality of a petty and insecure country. India is spending billions on military hardware. Let others spend if they wish. Grow up.
No nation in this world suffered because of fighting Terrorism and supporting US interest in this area except Pakistan. India was with Russians for decades and now wake up and realize that Soviets equipment is garbage.
India must also be very disappointed by knowing that Pakistani pilots are also well trained on super flying machine like Eurofighter Typhoon, Panavia Tornado IDS, F-15C Eagle and F-15E Strike Eagle of Royal Saudi Air force. Remember Royal Jordanian Air force fought along with PAF during the Indo Pak wars with their F-104 and Pakistani pilots flew Arab Hunters and Migs against Israeli air force in 67 and 73 Arab Israel war with great success.
USA will never develop its relationship at the price of sidelining Pakistan. When India was close with Russia, Pakistan strategic alliance with USA. This is US foreign policy. India try to digest it. You have just started and we are living with it for over 60 years.
It is good now we can differ with america on iran policy and further our interests in iran.
@Zak Grow up!
Indians hired the wrong guy to lobby. Ex Pakistani ambassador Haqani has lost all credibility in US.
India should show resolve in the 'matters' that trouble both our nations so we can spend billions of dollars on the betterment of people than on tools of war!
Both Ind/Pak are not very smart as the beneficiaries of our 'troubles' are the arms suppliers!!
I think Pakistan should summon the Indian Ambassador
Why summon US ambassador? summon your so called 'strong lobby' in US on which you spent lot of money.
@Dr. Farooq Khan this is the motive of every adversary, why blame India. You also create lot of noise for not including India in NSG.
How much love shown by India.We can see the frustration on their faces. They did every thing to stop this deal even our former ambassador tried to derail this .But finally Allhumdullah, we are won again. for those people who are very keen to continue dialogue with them.they aren't our friend we are only neighbor's.
India, mind your own business! Do you see us crying over your Rafale purchase? Get over the fact that Pak-US relations are independent of US-India relations.
Listens folks, our JF-17 Thunder has a much better technology than F-16 or outdated French Rafale... and for this very reason, India has backtracked from buying French Rafales.
Seriously !!!! Are we still living in the 70's ? where either country could whip up anti each other frenzy.....grow up India. As for you Pakistan: Use this money for a better cause....reduce deaths due to diseases, poverty....use the money to further education at 26% literacy rate the country is at the bottom of the ladder Stop wasting precious resources on buying weapons.
@Subramaniam Tawakley if all Indians start thinking as positive as you do then our problems would be quickly addressed.
Now if India's move has any impact on future procurements then sad part is Pakistan's silence when same Obama administration gave India special cell to expedite military dealings and transfer of tech to India!
Nation should see, what our PMs friend is doing with his country, despite having good time at Raiwind palace against the wishes of the majority of Pakistanis ..
@Prasad Now,thats the spirit.
India needs to cool it. Its has to go through congress.
India using their economic footprint to corner Pakistan. Pakistan should wakeup as next generation war will be fought through stronger economies and Pakistan is not even in the race till now. Surrendering to merit in oppose to family is a brave men's job and Pakistan unfortunately not brave enough but Indians do.
I am an Indian myself and do not see the rationale behind this. It's rather childish for Indian establishment to react this way, when we are ourselves in process of acquiring fighter jets from France and spending billions on arms purchase each year.
Modi's hypocrasy and deviousness exposed. He came to Lahore uninvited, then expresses friendship , now complains to US about 8 fighter planes behind Pakistan's back. Modi cannot be trusted.
Well, I think Modi govt has no clue when it comes to dealing with other countries. From when has a sale of 8 fighter jets started worrying India. Every country has right to defend its dignity and sovereignty. The Govt of India should know that Pakistan is our neighbor and it feels the same threat from India as we feel from Pakistan or China. After all Neighbor's envy is owner's pride ;).
By raising a big fuss over a small deal India is playing a shrewd diplomacy. Just 8 Planes, that too 40 years old are not going make an iota of a difference to India. But why stay silent? By playing victim India is pushing Americans on defensive. They always use dilly dallying tactics while negotiating transfer of highly advance technologies to India. Americans desperately need India's support in the Asia-Pacific region. Just pile up the pressure on them, because it will come in handy during the future Indo-American negotiations on several different deals. India's furious reaction should be seen on the above context.
US needs to introspect the ethics of 'lobbyists' in a democracy. These lobbyists work for foreign governments and their interests, receiving money to do the bidding, and not in interest of American people. Every two bit country starts calling US ambassador on issues that have nothing to do with them. The American Ambassador must have told indians to belt it and don't interfere in US internal matters.
@Subramaniam Tawakley well said.
@Zak then You should go to old pal Russia, looks like you forgot them for new found friends the US. Seasonal friends.
@Lafanga -- Your assessment is subject to change!
@lafanga -- WHO will pay? WHERE is the money?
then they will sell to india then to pakistan then to india,, this is how it works
I don't see any reason for India to worry as they are at least 10 times conventionally superior. Every country has right to decide what is good for them. If India requires they can go ahead with recently announced 5th gen joint project with Russia as no one in the region has 5th gen aircraft.
Sunil - The Americans have duped everyone here. Aren't you familiar with their foreign policies? There is only one policy and that is the American interest comes first. Sooner India learns that sooner India will be tow in the line.
In India Pakistan fight, US is doing his business. Why people dont understand. If India/Pakistan problem resolved US will loose significant revenue.
@Nadeem US has been very keen to sell these or other latest aircrafts which India declined because of non technology transfer hence they went with Russia for much advanced Sukhoi SU30 and Raffale from France and both of them are with technology transfer to Hindustan aeronautics Ltd.
@Rustom E Hind India shud mind its own buissness and stop acting like Superpower. China Russia US, Japan, etc are all ahead of India and Pakistan isnt too faar off economically and military wise equally.
can this take on 5 th gen fighters of india,japan,russia ?
When india is buying weapons from France ( deal worth 3600 plus million $)and other countries , why they should be concern, talk about hypocrisy. Lets do a peace deal and try to demilitarize the region and spend money on poor people.
I like the Indian sense of humor. Good joke.
Shame on BJP's Govt for their this insecure, intolerant act.
india is shopping worldover and for arms not to mention its local production.
'disappointed' but why?
India stay worry even Pakistan Buy *Stick *
@Irfan Baloch It is not just 8 planes.. it is their ability to carry nukes. India wouldn't object to F-16's that does not have nuke capability.
We must buy not 100's but 1000's more F16's. Pakistan First, PAKISTAN ZINDABAD
@Sunil wishful thinking!
@Brave good idea and summon Mr Haqani for having failed miserably
Toys that we will never use. This money could have been spent on equipping an existing Engineering university
India should be happy. We wasted another millions on arms
Pakistan argument is that they need these to fight terrorism and want the ability to make precision strikes. Pakistan has a strong case for the need of these expensive toys. one reality about these planes is that the spare parts they need is extremely important plus they will be very much useless if after a couple of years US refuse to supply the parts.
@Vorshal It us none of your business Mr Vorshal is it??. It is like my neighbour buys a new car and I start worrying about their ability to pay.
@Mohit Fair comment my friend
@M.M.Sherazi More importantly is the facts that any thing good for Pakistan is always considered bad by Indian's narrow minded politicians. '
On one hand India says it is the super power of this region and on the other hand afraid of on 8 F-16 jet fighters.
India Pakistan animosity is just a joke. They should think of their people rather than buying destructive weapons and building nuclear weapons.
They tell us that their military might is for China and Pakistan is of no consequence. But it took only eight air crafts to show their insecurities.
Pakistan Air Force has been flying F-16s for over 30 years and has 80 in inventory. Obama Administration's decision to provide another 8 F-16s to Pakistan is in the best interest of both countries being closely allied during the Cold War for over 60 years. Pakistan is also the front-line state fighting the global War on Terror.
Therefore, India's objection to the US government's decision is not only absurd, but malicious. India should not try to determine American foreign policy? Pakistan did "not" object to India acquiring 36 most advanced Rafale jets from France worth $8 billion. India's duplicity and diplomatic machinations are now exposed.
We should not be surprised by this news as this is what India is supposed to do. We must do whatever we can to safeguard interests of Pakistan
India is spending $billions to purchase French fighters. 8 F-16 by PAF is threat toIndia ?
Childish behavior by India. Can any one stop any one for building up its defense? Tomorrow they'll say don't eat healthy food else you'll become stronger than us and threaten us!
@Subramaniam Tawakley
Men of understanding and rationale are there in every colour, culture and creed.
Very appropriate comment. All of us have something good to take away from it.
8 F16s just 10% of our existing fleet. We already have enough to mouth breaking response capability.
@Sunil I remember Modi was also disappointed on CPEC, even went to China. but the fact is US need us and we need US.
Weldone Pakistan. Move ahead.
Only one to benefit is USA - more arms sold more powerful they become. Bigger bang for the buck if these money were spent by Pakistan on reducing poverty or improving infrastructure.
@Sunil the senate can be vetoed by the president
US will sell planes but hold back spare parts at will and at hour of need. Also this to prevent Russian sales.
the deal would make India extra cautious about US & its role as partner. India might counter balance it with new relations & deals with other countries which, in turn, could be counter productive for US. This may also cost US democrats with India campaigning for Republicans.
Is india starting interferring in US policy making process?
@Rana great strategy? Indias economy is 10× bigger Einstein!
India disappointment psychological, but uncalled for, US & Pakistan have special relationship as regards to combating terrorists,and Pakistan has very sucessfully confronted the terrorists and almost fully defeated it,and soon will completely irradicate it. But ofcourse prevention is better than cure.Hence to keep itself always prepared any eventuality it will keep purchasing the defense equipments it need. BTW India must know that F-16s were very helpful in combating terrorists in Zarb-e-Azb operation.
Such a childish and silly behavior by India.....Am I shocked...No
Pakistan already have an impressive fleet of F16 for a long time now. These eight will make no dent..Its US who wants to give them...and not Pakistan who is desperate for them...
Should not Pakistan summon French and Russian Ambassadors as well? Should not Pakistan protest to US for selling nuclear technology to India violating her own policies and laws?
India mistook US flirting with love. Real world is not an indian movie. US will go with its interests, indian lobby or no indian lobby.
height of hypocrisy as one of largest arms buyer crying over this small deal of just eight jets
@Faraz @Rustom E Hind and then India will be reminded of its place by USA.
usa could not show iran its place it will be able to show india its place?
remember on Iranian embargo usa pressurized india a lotbut india still went ahead and purchased oil from iran bec it was in our intrest plus we have Russia to supply hardware and Israel to give us hi tech weapons
not mentioning iran uae and Saudi ready to supply oil infact toady uae crown prince signed a security deal with india in delhi
Well, the deal has not been finally approved by the Senate and it has still to cross many hurdles. India is likely to prevail to needle this deal.
Indians buy billion of dollars worth of military hardware from across the globe. Pakistan never protests. Why the Indian leadership is getting jittery when their Defence budget is record high, amounting to $40bn, compared with Pakistan’s Defence budget of roughly $7bn, which is like peanuts.
@Sunil India is stock piling all the latest arsenal. What will eight make a difference?
Why pakistan need F-16 , you earlier said that JF-17 is better than F-16
8 planes big deal...
Good to see India always check its neighbor like super power nation do. India doesn't bother much as it have S-400 which can shot F 35 & J31
All of Pakistani initiatives in defense and counter terrorism are equally the need of the US. How can they ask Pakistan to do more without required more inputs for doing more than what they already do?
Pakistan needs a robust air force for its defense which should not disturb India. However, both India and Pakistan should sign a no war pact and work diligently in a timely manner to normalize relations between them which shall include but not limited to free trade and open bilateral investment regimes; visa-free visits for the people of both countries; technical cooperation in the IT, Mining, Agricultural and power sectors as well as joint team work on water resources management and poverty reduction programs
@WiseMan -- What about 80 PAF F16s who can carry nukes for India?
By the way, If it EVER come to that, Pakistan will deliver nukes to India without using any aircraft. Do you know that?
Learn about Pakistan's missile capabilities. 70 percent of Pakistan's defense in now Missile based. Completely re engineered concept and very innovative.
Do the Indians truely believe that PAF can ground entire IAF fleet with just 8 F-16s ? For US, its just another 'gesture' of friendship. For India, its just another 'spanner' in the works that Pakistan undertakes. For Pakistan, its just another 'show-off' to public that we're on great terms with the US administration. End-result : no news.
@Subramaniam Tawakley
Salute to you mate for this comment. Cannot agree more to you.
Guys it is customary to lodge a protest against each other whenever either Pakistan or India buys any military hardware . So why sweat about it ? The diplomats are doing their job , they have to justify their positions too . While the countries keep going about doing their business irrespective of any concerns/disappointments whatsoever .
we all have heard the story of two cats and a monkey. both india and pakistan need to give its citizens roti ,kappa or makaan……may god bless both india and pak with some sense.
What else can it do?
It's the arming of Pakistan at so cheap cost that rattles nerves , rafael is in billions and f16 in millions .cheap and effective all round .8 are not the matter , it's effects are . It's a very potent wepons compared to the older versions .1 is good for at least 4 other aircrafts due to wepons suit and countermeasures , many time a thorn may be more trouble then a nail as you got to tweeze it out of flesh with the needle soo it's double trouble like this new version f 16 that's electronically cloked and yet can fight hidden , very difficult to detect and defeat due to deceptive and effective electronic coutermeasure . Surely taliban don't have any airforce so the protest is bound to happen.
@Vivekbut f35 will not go on sale any time soon. Not even India will get it. It's too new and these f16s r upgrade d ones as opposed to old ones.
The idea behind summoning the ambassador and expressing displeasure is to show the US that double talk on terror will be watched and noted and will have consequences on further military deals with India. This has little to do with F-16 more to do with building diplomatic leverage for the future US president.
@Rustom E Hind India is not buying any equipment from USA to begin with.
Thru this deal usa has also given a cue that she will also sell f35s to pakistan
soon they will sell advanced version to India as they did this before. Its simple business !!!
@Sunil typical immature thiking, about time that you grow up the sooner the better.
India panics each time Pakistan grows militarily, economically or politically. Pakistan is not a slave to what India wants or doesn't want it to do. We are an independent country, fully capable of defending our geographical and ideological frontiers even against all odds. India should learn to live with this reality and stop mingling in our internal affairs. God bless Pakistan !
@Vivek So go and strike a deal for 300 F - 35s .......... after a successful deal of 36 x Rafales......... why are you crying over just 8 aircrafts????
We Indians must grow up and face the reality. All our efforts to undermine Pakistan have gone no where. Leave them and take care of our problems.
@Subramaniam Tawakley . Well said. Sub-continent should be nest of peace and people should be free to travel like people do between Canada and USA. Lets join the efforts for peace.
Democrats should pay for this in coming US Presidential elections. Let's wipe off all the blue states in the west and north-east into blue. They need to learn a lesson.
Will India also summon Russian ambassador if Russia annonces sale of SU 35 Super Flanker to Pakistan?
@Sunil There is no problem when India goes all out to buy French Fighter jets in dozens, Russian jets, British arms and jets, American arms and jets, Nuclear Power Plants etc just to name few. But there is a problem when Pakistan buys these arms in significantly few in numbers. The old habit of "Jealousy" will never die specially when it comes to Pakistan. If Indians consider Pakistanis to be of the same stock and brothers, then why there is jealousy?
@ummer your roughly in right direction, but wrong analysis. US knows india is broke , but what US wants is to use India as a guinea bag against China. For Pakistan, the U.S. wants it to do its work in fighting the Taliban who are fighting US in Afghanistan, like Haqqani network. Basically, Pakistan for muscle and India for dummy.
Thank you USA, we Pakistani people thank you for understanding our needs and helping us fight the menace of terrorism, India on the one hand fanning terrorism in Pakistan and when USA is helping us by giving us the weapons Indian disappointment is understandable.The first batch of F16 arrived in mid 80's, how many of them were used against India? India needs to grow up and show the world that its a responsible country and not a spoiled Child who is unhappy and jealous because other kids got toys.
@Abid Your statement is laughable; if Chinese airplanes are better than American, then why waste money for the same price 24 jets can be acquired from China.
As an Indian I don't understand the stance of my government. We know how fantastic our relationship is with Pakistan. So if they feel they need 8 or 80 planes they will buy them. What's the point of this drama about getting US ambassador for conveying displeasure!! We can buy/ arm twist for another deal or leverage some other advantage.
Pakistan you go ahead and enjoy your joyride.
This is just diplomacy by India and US. We have to make some noise and that is it. Same as Pakistan also do. US have to do business but do not say it but make it that these planes are for fighting against terrorists but everybody know it is not for it. You don't fight terrorists with F16's and you already have plenty of it.
whatever the reason..i am happy India in a position to summon USA ambassador ..feeling proud Not many countries have guts to do that.
I think this is what US wants. India and Pakistan keep buying arms from them so that we both keep fighting and they keep earning. Isn't this an eye opener for us? Hope both the countries focus on spending on Education, Health and Poverty
@Worth_Commenting - thanks for realistic comments. This is all about this protests.
@Sunil hahaha. are you sure? lol
@Subramaniam Tawakley totally agree with you mate
Totally agree with you mate
@Subramaniam Tawakley Hope we have people like you on both the sides
@Arsalan Khan This deal is around 600 million dollars. Play by the logic.Only a few days ago US approved 800 million dollar aid to Pakistan and now they want to sell their 8 F16 to your country for 600 million dollars. Today Pakistan is in 90 billion dollars in debit.US is playing a very dirty game because they want these planes to be used to promote their agenda at the cost of ur country.
friends.. india knew things b4 tweeting. so chill
@sk -- And US may counter balance by reducing BPO to India. India's so called prosperity is not due to economic strength of its own population but entirely dependant upon BPO by USA and Europe due to their own weak economic situation
India is no economic power of its own. Its Citizens cannot afford world class products and services (only 1 percent can do at this time) if US and Europe stop outsourcing. Think again
@Irfan Baloch Actually this protest by India is a routine process. Sale of 8 planes will not change anything on the ground. India's conventional military power is significantly more than that of Pakistan. With the advent of the private sector in defense manufacture, many of whom are collaborating with well established defense manufacturers in the west, India is poised to become a source of world class defense equipment to the world.
Pakistan must match India's defence budget, and it should spend more.
@Brave You should buy more advanced planes and weapons from USA. Just ask the saudis and they will help you out.
Best Comment by @World Watchers Indeed America and EU countries playing games. They will keep selling arms to us so that we keep biting each other like dogs. If they were our real friends they should rather stop selling arms to these two countries and force them onto table so that human lives can be saved and poverty can be eradicated. Peace shall prevail. Amin
@Zak and who cares
This is a diplomatic win for Pakistan on two fronts. We got the planes AND made india spend millions to stop the sale. :D
France sale aircraft to India Pakistan dont say nothing because Pakistan have maturity
Mr Jaishankar, a little bit of sporting spirit is called for in this situation, you've ordered some such toys from the French recently, America has tossed a few over to Pakistan. Why would you object?
This is quite funny news, cat calling the kettle black!!!!
We need that money to build school and hospitals in Pakistan. USA, please reject the sale.
I'm sure USA will in turn sell weapons to India. Mission accomplished by selling to weapons to both parties !!!
Pls pls don't buy these planes spend that money to develop indigenous avionics and weaponry
What a drama being played. American on their side, after so much noise in their congress, are releasing the jets as if some favour is done for Pakistan. Indian on their part are doing these shenanigans as if they are some super duper power while it seems that both America and India are on board on this as mere 8 F16s will not dent Indian air force in any shape or form while they got huge fleet of Su30 mig29 mirage2000 and now upcoming rafaels. On Pakistan part anyone with slight common sense will not be impressed by these silly manovours. We need to get Russian Su30 in big numbers and build new blocks of jf17 on fast pace
chinese plane are good enough for pakistan, no need for amer junk
A Thought!!!
What happens after two "Ignorant Parties" get a weapons support by third party ?
Had Pakistan summoned the US envoy, when US was helping India to access in NSG group. The world has not seeing this India increase their Nuclear capability day by day by this access, which can imbalance the region noble. 800 F-16 instead of 8 F-16 cannot pay the price which Pakistan have paid in US war.
Pakistanis should not start celebrating, there is still many a slip between cup and lip. Influential Republican Senaters have put this deal on hold as of now.
@Dr. Farooq Khan Can't you see....we are already blessed :)
@Sunil Sorry buddy , Senate will always pass as it has always passed . They know very well that we are fighting their war !
@Subramaniam Tawakley Thats sound a good plan !
@Pakistani Is india even allowed to do this??? - Hell yeah
India should have summoned Pakistani ambassador and pleaded Pakistan , not to manufacture JF-17 thunder .
@Rustom E Hind India doesn't, FYI! India has Russian planes thus the inferior quality
There was no need to put such a provocative head line for this news item. For sure no one is disappointed as the arms race will continue at the expense of the ordinary civilians.
Dont understand why India has to behave like a little kid.
F16 to counter terrorism? How ridiculous is that?
@Rustom E Hind You'll see that happening. Airbus will get more orders and India will buy its defence hardware from the French,Russians and the Israelis.
Let us see. Who is right and who is wrong? It's a political game.
@Ailly I really don't know what you talking about. CPEC project will not be successful. There are so many reasons. If you make project like this there should be investment from different countries but you people concentrating on China.
@JK that is how india nips things in the bud
american business in india will take a hit, its a matter of time
@Asif Iqbal. Dream on
F16 is very expensive, almost 88 million dollars for one plane. I suggest government should inject this money in F17 thunder project.
Oh please India grow up for God sake! I am tired of India's whining!
@Sunil haha keep dreaming Sunil.
The correct Indian approach would be to impose a specific anti terror tax on imports from US. India should also look at some specific measures like non acceptance on American patents in certain areas , for example pharma. The only way India can get Americans worried is by targeting their financial interests. Pleading with non entities like Verma is wasting time.
I hope these new F-16s for $699 million will help pakistan to end poverty, load shedding and education crisis. Very excited
Who is the ultimate winner. Both India and Pakistan are spending billions on weapons while their masses are living under poverty. Keep it up boys our couple of more generation would keep eating grass.
India's immature reaction to Pakistanis oneipmanship attitude - who benefits?? Uncle Sam. The more we fight, the more Lockheed and US senate party and celebrate. When the F will we ever see through this?
Enemies of Pakistan will always be dissappointed !
India's disappointment at the Presidential notice to sell F-16s to Pakistan is not due to fear or conceived loss of superiority over Pakistan. It is because of the convoluted and irrational logic that the US is propagating for justifying the sale. India welcomes US help and encouragement to Pakistan in conclusively dealing with terror on its soil, but having a hard time believing that the F-16s will be or can be used in controlling terror and terrorist networks. Pakistan already has scores of F-16s and other fighter jets and can very well use it if it wants to. There has to be a will. It is easy to wake up a sleeping person, how can one wake up someone just pretending to sleep?
America selling arms to both neighbors so war continues and we are never at peace....typical USA
@Sunil Is india buying weapons to open a museum ??
Obviously India weapon purchase has a purpose too , so does Pakistan. You create a insecure climate, you face the consequences too. How hard is that to understand??
They are not giving, its been going since the 90s, they never give, they are just dumping their unused ammo on Pakistan.
India need not to worry, it has been on shopping spree for a while, not to mention a $10B dollar contract that all the major powers were fighting for.
USA is hinting India to buy American weapons rather than French and Israeli ones. As simple as that. What's there to debate?
No Pakistani will talk about bigger needs of Pakistan than 2 decade old F16s.
@Pakistani US India relations are different to Pakistan-France/Russia/other arms suppliers relations. India and US had strategic dialog and this sale of F16s should have disappointed India based on that dialog. This is a good move by India to register its protest. US protested and prevented Russia from delivering Cryogenic engines to India during the '90s. India is using the US style of response. This is a test of US India relations, Pakistan is only a reason.
@Sunil The question is that why should India worry if the deal is sealed ?
@Vijay So what were the "strategic" reasons behind India threatening Srilanka not to buy JF-17s ?
However this F-16 deal turns out to be , it is yet another occasion on which the Indians' intense hatred for Pakistan has been exposed. It has exposed the truth behind the claims Indians make about wanting to see a prosperous and peaceful Pakistan. Indians are delusional and perceive themselves to be very clever . It's funny how they expect us to trust them and believe anything they say about wanting Pakistan to prosper.
India must be disappointed as sale of F-16s to Pakistan will ruin Indian sponsored terrorist hideouts inside Pakistani territory.