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WASHINGTON: The US State Department has said that Pakistan will have to pay from its own funds if it wants to buy F-16 fighter jets.
Pakistan had earlier reached an understanding with the US for buying eight F-16 planes. Under the deal, Pakistan was required to pay about $270m from its national funds. The US was supposed to provide the rest from its Foreign Military Financing (FMF) fund.
But at a congressional hearing on Wednesday, US lawmakers made it clear that they would not allow the Obama administration to use US funds for the deal.
On Friday, a State Department official told Dawn that Congress had placed a hold on the deal, forbidding the administration from using US funds for enabling Pakistan to buy the planes.
And on Monday afternoon, the department confirmed that Pakistan will have to use its own funds if it wants the planes.
The latest announcement practically kills the deal and Pakistan may find it difficult to buy the planes at two and a half times more than the agreed price.
Published in Dawn, May 3rd, 2016
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Comments (236) Closed
May 03, 2016 06:42am
I do not think it is a big deal fpr Pakistan. Pakistan is getting 46 billion dollars from China. They can pay for many many more F-16 if needed.
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May 03, 2016 06:44am
So embarrassing for us to leave the deal now, just pay and get it. We can use some of the CPEC fund for this purchase, our friend will understand the situation.
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May 03, 2016 06:46am
I don't understand. Why is Pakistan so hell bent on getting F-16s? They definitely are not cutting edge anymore so why run after them so much. Also what happened to developing indigenous technology? These aircraft are seriously expensive and if counter terrorism is the real purpose for buying them then Pakistan can do a fair bit with its current aircraft. And what huge difference will make 8 aircraft make really? There is no real need for these aircraft. And if these aircraft are to supposedly to be used against India then they are pretty useless as well since India has acquired far superior aircraft from the Russians. So why don't we just let go of these F-16s? This seems to be a blessing in disguise.
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May 03, 2016 06:47am
Good for Pakistan, anyways Pakistan need more schools than F16
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May 03, 2016 06:59am
Where are those who have always been boasting of the competency of our diplomacy in Washington?
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May 03, 2016 06:58am
Thanks US for stopping the money, this will bring peace in Pakistan.
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May 03, 2016 07:00am
With self respect Pakistan can buy it.
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May 03, 2016 07:11am
The same happend in the 19oos, and PK ended up paying interest on undelivered F16. Considering experience with the US . Why is PK still have relience on the US for military HW.
There are better option out there.
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May 03, 2016 07:12am
Pakistan should scrap this ridiculously priced old and obsolete, 4th generation fighter. The Price of 8 Jets at 700 Million roughly comes to about $85 Million per Jet. That is the extremely overpriced rate. That is also the price of the most advanced, 5th generation F-35, that is capable of vertical Take Off and Landing. The actual price of F-16 is somewhere around $20 Million to $25 Million per piece, and for 8 Jets it should only cost around $160 to $200 Million Max. Pakistan's original price agreement of $270 Million, even that was above the price of what the old tech. F-16 is worth in the international Market. Pakistan should seriously withdraw without any further humiliation. Its simply not worth it. If the US wants to sell Pakistan F-35 for the same price they are asking for F-16, which is basically the price of F-35, then go for F-35 only, and not obsolete and outdated F-16's, which even India has rejected in favor France's 5th gen Rafael deal.
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May 03, 2016 07:11am
have some dignity and tell US to keep its plains. we ll go and buy from elsewhere if we had to pay that much.
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May 03, 2016 07:14am
this is why iran never kneel down in front of America. They will use you and throw you like a tissue. America has never been a friend of Pakistan.
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May 03, 2016 07:15am
Dump the F-16 for God's Sake. go for Chinese J-10b
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May 03, 2016 07:20am
Someone has a BIG SAY here, undoubtedly the neighbour, exactly as they do in Cricket.....
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May 03, 2016 07:21am
on one hand they are offering to set up a f16 plant in India, and transfer of technology. And the other Pakistan can't even get a mere 8 jets from them. Hope Pakistan learn something.
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May 03, 2016 07:31am
No problem. China will either Finance buying of F16s or provide it's own jet fighters free of cost. Pakistan China friendship Zindabad
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May 03, 2016 07:37am
Fine. No F-16s. Let us look for 5th generation aircrafts from France.
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May 03, 2016 07:57am
' The US State Department has said that Pakistan will have to pay from its own funds if it wants to buy F-16 fighter jets.' - makes logical sense.
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May 03, 2016 07:59am
Nice policy to make u buy an old line of planes and keep american jobs. Why cant pakistan ask for technology transfer.
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May 03, 2016 08:19am
Now that's called pressure imposed from India due to its unhappiness to the deal.
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May 03, 2016 08:17am
China is with us now so we should not get trapped into the old US baggage. Obama is now a lame duck.
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May 03, 2016 08:20am
Well! where are the Pakistani foreign policy makers and experts? Probably, all of them in US with green cards and writing expert columns in Pakistani newspapers or working as TV analyst.
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May 03, 2016 08:24am
so sad... now who will protect us in need.
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May 03, 2016 08:24am
What has happend to India and Pak. So much unnecessary spending on Rafale and F16 deals.
They must understand simple logic that west will always make sure that there is no peace between India and Pak so that in the name of National security these countries contine to buy weapons. Both these countries have hell lot of problems but still they are spending unnecessarily on Defence. This budget can be used somewhere else.
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May 03, 2016 08:24am
use and throw policy, never trust them.
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May 03, 2016 08:27am
Old technology for one Billion Dollar is not worth and then again 8 jets. Pakistan can get 50 New stealth from China for one Billion, they know the Chinese technology and plan future jets from China who will be world leader in arms soon; other option is 20 F16 for one billion dollar plus American hero Dr Shakeel, will solve issues for both; US get their hero who sacrificed his life and family and had long jail time and Pakistan will get their F16 toys which will get obsolete in no time; US can add some retiring Chinook to same deal will make Pakistan more happy and they might deliver the Judge also to US who jail Dr Shakeel. If US not going to give what Pakistan want then a major nuclear power might will tilt more towards China. Ball in American court. For F16, Pakistan military will break the jail and will deliver Shakeel and his family to US in one of the F16, but I prefer they should deliver him in one of the Chinook which US might give as bonus, they are retiring anyway. .
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May 03, 2016 08:29am
Pakistan should start buying Russian or European planes.
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May 03, 2016 08:28am
Right move by US
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May 03, 2016 08:29am
US, the most unreliable country in the world !!!
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May 03, 2016 08:29am
One should not borrow and expect others to pay for these expensive arms while the general population is suffering. Stop this war mongering postures. If you do not have money, why do you need F-16? Be self sufficient first, be educated, lift your economy, be stronger in terms of finances so that you become eligible to buy. Borrowing is not a solution! As a matter of fact, it makes you look weak and conniving.
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May 03, 2016 08:31am
Don't buy please.
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May 03, 2016 08:32am
If you can't afford, then don't buy...
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May 03, 2016 08:41am
Just curious if India has anything to do with it.
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May 03, 2016 08:49am
Good Decision. Use the money for science and technology education of the children. That will make the country more strong.
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May 03, 2016 08:50am
If Pakistan really need F16 then it should pay for it.
If Pakistan pay for F16 then they get right to use them even against India
U get respect for paying for things and not for asking for free
It is just $2 billion, not much for big nations.
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May 03, 2016 08:53am
Better not to buy these planes if it costs so much (: Now its time to move to Russia.
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May 03, 2016 08:55am
Fail to understand why Pakistan made the deal at two and a half times the original price of the jets, even if US was footing some part of the cost, who is making this one and a half extra?
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May 03, 2016 08:56am
Does not take a rocket scientist to guess that India is behind this move. I am sure US will soon see the light.
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May 03, 2016 09:06am
Save the money. Don't buy
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May 03, 2016 09:05am
American are after the nukes of Pakistan. Even Pakistani forces are successfully conducting operations in Fata and border alongside with the Afghanistan there is now way to say "NO" for the equipment oh! i forget but Pakistan is not listing US when it comes to it's nuclear assets. Why Pakistan have to listen US??? when it's neighboring country India are looking to pile up it's nuclear stock. Dear Congress thank you so much this is one of the most appreciated step by you to make Pakistan suffer so none in future see you as strategic partner but as thug who have nothing to do with Partner but make them suffer. Before 9/11 there was not concept of suicide bombing but after that almost 50,000 plus Pakistani's loose there life in america war on terror and you are giving them honor in this way.
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May 03, 2016 09:07am
Pakistan real enemy is America and Israel. Prepare for them and India will be insignificant
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May 03, 2016 09:14am
Good for US, India and Pak too.
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May 03, 2016 09:15am
Long term Loan can be taken from china.
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May 03, 2016 09:16am
Not worth it.
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May 03, 2016 09:18am
Pakistan should offer to provide Russia a Naval Base in Pasni or Ormara and in return Pakistan should get 300 SU-35, 150 MiG-35, 50 KA-52 and 12 batteries of S-400 missiles. Pakistan must seal off border with Afghanistan to block terrorists pouring into Pakistan because that is the only way to control Afghan aggression.
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May 03, 2016 09:17am
No thanks. Pakistan does not need 30 year old technology on iinflated price, go sell somewhere else. Pakistan will revisit its unconditional support on so called war on terror, Pakistan has lost 80,000 citizens for your war.
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May 03, 2016 09:20am
Market economy. What can I say. You have to pay for the goods you want to have. This system usually avoids unnecessary spending.
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May 03, 2016 09:20am
Well played India. 8 Jets wouldn't have tilted the power balance one bit but the diplomatic balance is turned on its head.
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May 03, 2016 09:20am
Don't buy
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May 03, 2016 09:24am
Pakistan should buy the jets as they are essential for fight against terrorists
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May 03, 2016 09:27am
Why Pakistan is not paying when its pocket it flowing with 46 billion $ given by Chinese.
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May 03, 2016 09:28am
We still don't learn a lesson....
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May 03, 2016 09:28am
Beggars don't get to choose. If there would have been a trickle of honour among Pakistanis .. this would have never happened but unfortunately our honour is limited to what a woman does!!!!!
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May 03, 2016 09:31am
This was bound to happen someday
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May 03, 2016 09:30am
No matter Pakistan can pay it easily!
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May 03, 2016 09:32am
Awesome.. Now no more free weapons...
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May 03, 2016 09:31am
India will get what ever she wants. She wanted to Pakistan not to get F-16 and here is the result
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May 03, 2016 09:32am
Very good... But bad for common Pakistani citizens. Now, the budget is about to be declared, IMF is dictating its terms and asking Pakistan to draft the budget in a way so that it can pay maximum interests on the billions of dollars loans that it has taken. Now, the Pakistani military which takes always more than 50% of total budget will snatch even a bigger share now to buy these obsolete toys because of its obsession with rapidly growing India. At a time when Pakistan is struggling hard to survive, no power across the country, stuck in circular debt, taking loans to pay interests on old loans will do anything to buy these plans since army wants this and everyone knows who is the real boss in Pakistan and rules it. Now it will compromise all public welfare schemes to increase military budget. Again the common people will have to suffer most. Alas, why it happens only with Pakistan, when its rulers will think of people? May god help common Pakistanis who have nothing to do with this..
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May 03, 2016 09:33am
Makes sense. If we intend to buy them, we not to foot the bill. I would rather they stop buying these useless military hardware and start spending on our debilitated infrastructure of the country (water, electricity, hygiene, planting trees to reduce heat in summer, education, family planning for overpopulation, reduce taxes on the common man and higher for the rich and corrupt), the country is in shambles.
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May 03, 2016 09:35am
Of course, you can't get everything for free.
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May 03, 2016 09:33am
No thanks, you can keep them.
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May 03, 2016 09:39am
Very sad !!!
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May 03, 2016 09:40am
Ditch this deal.. go ahead with JF-17.. since we have OPTION available.. and that too which is cost effective. Pak should say thanks but no thanks and walk away!
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May 03, 2016 09:44am
There is a neighbor who always shows off all kinds of weapons and threatens us but he doesnt have education, no infrastructure, whatever he makes he uses it to buy more and more weapons which in turn results in poverty and bankruptcy.
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May 03, 2016 09:47am
It would be interesting to see if Pakistan still go with the purchase?
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May 03, 2016 09:48am
F-16 are outdated for pakistan. Pakistan should buy french Rafale or russian SU-35. Why to pay for obsolete planes.
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May 03, 2016 09:49am
Question: if they are so expensive, why not go for the JF17s for now?
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May 03, 2016 09:54am
No more free stuff.
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May 03, 2016 09:55am
Guess the deal is off now.
Thank you very much. We'll do away with Chinese products, although not as good, they wouldnt drill a hole in our defense budget.
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May 03, 2016 09:56am
Indian and Jewish lobby did it again.
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May 03, 2016 10:06am
Finally some common sense from America
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May 03, 2016 10:08am
US should pay for the losses Pakistan has suffered due to US misadventure in Afghanistan, we are hosting millions of refugees since several decades, our losses are incalculable.
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May 03, 2016 10:09am
Finally, the deal is dead...The message is clear...War is not a solution..
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May 03, 2016 10:08am
Dont buy. simply!
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May 03, 2016 10:12am
When JF-17 is our destiny, why are we still running after F-16s? Invest the money in our own aircraft, which we can tweak based upon our needs.
Think this way. 8 F-16s are due to cost around USD 800 million and the total Pakistani contribution in the design and development of the JF-17 was USD 500 million!
The Pressler amendment was a blessing in disguise for us. I hope that the current problems and resistance faced by this deal in the hands of US congressmen will result in an even better result.
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May 03, 2016 10:13am
it was always expected
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May 03, 2016 10:14am
That's great if Pakistan does not buy USA fighter to support their economic activities and to wage their wars on others. USA can keep their planes and let them depreciate ! If USA does not want our business, we can spend our hard earned cash on health and education services in Pakistan. We are sick of fighter jets and wars and we want peace !!
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May 03, 2016 10:16am
F-16s are more than 30 years old crap,
Chinese J11 and Russian SU-35 are better and cheaper options.
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May 03, 2016 10:22am
Nothing new from US, they did it before & would do it again...... important thing is to minimize our dependency on them & focus on ties with Muslim Nations & vise versa. But unfortunate part is that most of our energies are spent on strengthening the bond with them instead if we only make half the efforts with Muslim Nations then the benefits would be manifold. There would always remain difference of opinion amongst Muslims however should not stop us from developing better relations.
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May 03, 2016 10:25am
So, now situation is going to be unpredictable.
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May 03, 2016 10:24am
Plz don't buy it; not worth this price. Look for other better options.
Also invest some more in local indeginisation.
God bless Pakistan!!!
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May 03, 2016 10:27am
US policy with India and Pakistan is like sailing in two boats with one leg each.
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May 03, 2016 10:27am
We have JFT-17,, No need of F16,
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May 03, 2016 10:28am
Sensible, but not effective. Pakistan has many friends who can make deal happen if they want Pakistan to have this planes. Read like China and SA.
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May 03, 2016 10:33am
A blessing in disguise. Spend and invest elsewhere, we don't want this headache.
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May 03, 2016 10:35am
It is time to leave the F-16s alone, we have to look else where while working on the JF-17s. USA never was a reliable "friend" nor a trustworthy partner.
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May 03, 2016 10:42am
Thanks , but no Thanks. Don't need them.
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May 03, 2016 10:54am
just like our own politicians, our enemy has bought U.S politicians as well. There is no way this deal is going through. Pak better approach other countries for purchase.
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May 03, 2016 10:55am
For America friends of today enemies of tomorrow. Just remember one fact that USA could not have become the sole super power without the help of Pakistan.
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May 03, 2016 10:54am
In the least-offensive term I can use, I must say this has been a great trap for Pakistan. But, unfortunately at the same time, it is nothing new.
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May 03, 2016 10:59am
big blow to war-on-terror. US always leave the battlefield after messing up.
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May 03, 2016 11:02am
Bad news for Pakistan, we have been waiting for these fighter jets for so long, and now US coming under Indian influence and putting hold to the Assistance. Best choice now is to avoid these fighter jets.
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May 03, 2016 11:01am
Good riddance. Can we divert the remaining funds towards education? Sounds good idea!
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May 03, 2016 11:09am
Come on Pakistan move to China or Russia
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May 03, 2016 11:18am
IMF has already declared that Pakistan does not need any more financial injections to run the country. Pakistan should be in a position to buy the F-16s. What is the issue?
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May 03, 2016 11:18am
Good now use that money for something better. How about investing it in Education.
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May 03, 2016 11:20am
US can keep the planes. Thanks, but no thanks.
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May 03, 2016 11:22am
Ah ok what's wrong in it?
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May 03, 2016 11:25am
Its better instead F16 if you pay for hospitals, schools, electricity and clean water for every single house of pakistan, few additional F16 is not going to make a dramatic change in your life but this will....
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May 03, 2016 11:26am
Pakistan must put taxes on NATO Containers and we are providing them free tax charges for past 10 years. It is time for put taxes and charges for road damages and we can easily make 2 to 5 Billion dollars from these taxes. If common people paying taxes then why didn't charge to US?
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May 03, 2016 11:34am
Finally! Now we can move forward and invest the money in JF-17 Block 3 and R&D. F-16 is the fighter of yesterday. Also, Pakistan need a 5th generation stealth fighter which can counter Indian soon to come S-300 and S-400 air defence systems.
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May 03, 2016 11:34am
If US want Pakistan to fight their war against terrorist,they should provide F16 free of charge. Pakistan armed forces are fighting their war against terrorists seccessfully.
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May 03, 2016 11:35am
What I remember is that first objection was raised by India about selling F-16 to Pakistan, Hmm well played India..
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May 03, 2016 11:35am
Yes, and how Obama administration made the commitment without taking congress into confidence. The policy that always deceives us.
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May 03, 2016 11:35am
I believe in PAF not in the F-16. This deal was not effective right from the start, Pakistan should have to keep this in mind in future there is a cost for everything, foreign military financing means "AID FOR US MILITARY" to achieve there goal's in the region. And of-course much influenced from the Indian lobby how can they make this decision.
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May 03, 2016 11:42am
successful lobbying by Indian officials.....
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May 03, 2016 11:44am
Our dignity and respect is when we start believing and relying in ourselves and in our resources. Our people and our country has tremendous capabilities; we only require a few sincere people who can lead from the front. After 14 August 1947, we started with limited amenities (every resource delivered less than what was promised to the new nation) and then those self reliant people and their successors took the nation to be a nuclear power. Hurdles have and are being created to Pakistan's existence and it's rights but I'm positive that our nation and its armed forces will overcome these obstacles and challenges.. Uth ba'and kamar kia darta hay, phir daikh khuda kia karta hay".
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May 03, 2016 11:43am
In my opinion this news completes the paradigm shift of US foreign policy in South Asia.
Pakistan has lost confidence of a longstanding ally, they might have had minor defferences and an element of distrust. But this tells that US has had enough.
Whether it be aid for vaccination, strengthening of democracy, or wiping out of taliban. It seems pakistan is also to blame for, for such an event.
The rigid stance, staunch age old ways, and over reliance on China has costed this.
Pak should've been accommodative, and should've shown a balance of relations with all the countries.
See the neighbours China & India, they have engaged with Russia, US, Iran, Saudi, EU, and among themselves, despite of differences. That's how things work.
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May 03, 2016 11:45am
No problem China will give us free planes, and we can also use saudi F16 when we need them, and don't forget Turkey, they will also help us.
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May 03, 2016 11:47am
Good for us. lets build our own.
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May 03, 2016 11:49am
If you love a dame, do your own courting.
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May 03, 2016 11:52am
So now is the time to finally learn the lesson and start using our plane manufacturing program...
We dont these,,,better to be self sufficient now
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May 03, 2016 11:51am
yaar stop buying these obsolete aircraft!! invest in research and in your technology and work on modern better versions of Jf 17's . Its time to be khud kafeel ...not easy but definitely possible.
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May 03, 2016 11:54am
Great decision by the USA
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May 03, 2016 11:58am
@Yoda .......... then you must also understand why was India whinning about this deal?
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May 03, 2016 11:57am
US helped all along, now due to senate opposition only problem happened.
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May 03, 2016 12:04pm
I think Pakistan government should free itself from the clutches of uncertainty ever present with the american relationship. This off again & on again policy by white house will some day land Pakistan in a real mess. This attitude from america is not something new, Pakistan went through this attitude several times before yet our ever bowing leaders could do nothing. It is about time for Pakistan to look for alternatives or perhaps work more to enhance the capabilities of its own JF 17 aircrafts. If there is a real will there is always a way. Pakistan has already mastered its indigenous nuclear & missile technology why cannot it master the fighter aircraft technology. Produce your own version of a better than F 16 aircraft.
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May 03, 2016 12:07pm
I'm making this comment as an Indian who want nothing but peace. All the comments I see here is about Pak looking for buying fighters from China and other sources but its surprising to see not a single person have mentioned that Pak should develop its own fighter. India have developed one, Tejas HAL, its not the best for sure but its a great start. Its not the best that we have its much better than the MIGS and just about will catch up with a Sukhoi. Nevertheless its only going to get better, why is Pak not thinking along this line? Don't you think its high time Pak comes up with its own indigenous war machines , don't you think Pak should also be paying more attention (actually even a little bit) to its space program? I'm speaking only from a defense perspective as I do understand both countries have bigger issues to counter.
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May 03, 2016 12:18pm
We can survive without those planes, US can only sell weapons and Donations but never works on any development project, Pak better say good bye to this deal.
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May 03, 2016 12:19pm
US in queue with their F18 A/E among others like Sweden Gripen to open their production plant in India.
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May 03, 2016 12:22pm
No need for such an expensive deal, at nearly $100 million a piece it's like paying to sustain Lockheed production line when country is struggling for critical development funds.
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May 03, 2016 12:22pm
India is behind this.India was against the deal.
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May 03, 2016 12:25pm
When are we going to realize the truth in what Dr.Kissinger had once said : Being America's enemy is dangerous but being it's friend is fatal . Please let us focus on getting closer to Russia and China . Let us improve ties with Afghanistan and Iran. Only then Pakistan would be in a stronger position to handle such situations.
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May 03, 2016 12:28pm
Simplest solution: Be friends with India. Both countries would save billions . Cut down military and eventually the spending. Eat roti and saag , eat biryani. Shun terror and leave Kashmir issue to Kashmiris and instead make Pakistan a better place..problem solved!
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May 03, 2016 12:28pm
@AMIN JUNEJO You know it now , what you going to do...
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May 03, 2016 12:28pm
@AMIN JUNEJO Indians used Israeli lobbyists. Open secret.
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May 03, 2016 12:32pm
@Ali Shah The answer is nobody will give u any sophisticated weapons without India's permission. Remember India have a much stronger VETO power than China even though she doesn't have permanent UNESCO seat.
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May 03, 2016 12:34pm
not a surprise, dump this deal.. spend this money on the people who make these kind of technologies and bring them home to build for us.
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May 03, 2016 12:35pm
In a perfect world we pay for things we use, i am not sure why anger on this issue. Yes, Pakistan has suffered a lot because of terorism etc but it's in best interest of Pakistan not to mix up issues.
Depend damage where it's done and pay for things you wish to buy.
Simple .. right?
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May 03, 2016 12:40pm
@stranger : You cant fund the F-16s and expect to fund 5th Generation Fighters from France?
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May 03, 2016 12:40pm
F-16s are for war and aggression. Why should any country provide funds to any other for buying weapons of destruction? If Pakistan so wants, they should buy in the open market themselves!
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May 03, 2016 12:43pm
Open 10 new Universities with full faculty
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May 03, 2016 12:43pm
Good for Pakistan. We should consider some other substitute. Focus on JF-17 Thunder and induct as many of them as we can. Say good by to F-16 and the US.
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May 03, 2016 12:48pm
Pakistan must withdraw the deal without wasting any time. Pakistan can survive without 8 obsolete jets. Tables will turn around in Pakistan's favour before you know it, just play the game accordingly.
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May 03, 2016 12:54pm
@Ali Shah - F16 is a very capable fighter plane. Dont underestimate it.. Why Pakistan was behind F16 was as it was getting it in less than 1/4th Price... Russia wont give anything in free, Sukhoi and Mig will come with a cost... Second you need loads of repairing and parts so more varients you have more maintenance facilities you need.
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May 03, 2016 12:56pm
I still feel they are worth buying in order to bomb terrorists .
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May 03, 2016 01:05pm
Please spend these $270m on education instead of pitching extra to complete the deal!
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May 03, 2016 01:16pm
So basically nobody cares about education and healthcare! That's the world we live in.
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May 03, 2016 01:16pm
@ali It has been never friend of anyone. Its always double standard policy. Be it India or Pakistan.
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May 03, 2016 01:17pm
@CK: In a way yes & in a way no. Yes because this tough instance may take Pakistan to seek alternatives, No, because this will take america further away from the hearts & minds of Pakistanis & will also affect fight against terror. Why will Pakistan be inclined to fight for others with its own resources and under non cooperative gestures.
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May 03, 2016 01:22pm
It is better for India and Pakistan to improve their relation instead of spending billions of dollars on defense. In war there will be no win win, in war is always loose loose. Just at look the history of recent decades long of wars. Please spend this money to develop intuitions and save something for our beneficiary generations. Say no to war, yes to love.
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May 03, 2016 01:24pm
Pakistan must use this time to get rid of this deal and refuse to buy these aging old technology.Chinese j10 and j20 the krta Pakistan can gets its hands on quickly and these are fairly useful .
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May 03, 2016 01:36pm
Make peace with India my friends.Its much cheaper than any aircraft of America china or russia.Alongwith security it will also ensure economic growth and stability in Pakistan.
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May 03, 2016 01:54pm
Simple rule. Now that the other party significantly wants to or has changed the terms of contract, Pakistan should scrap the deal and instead deal with Russia for their MIGs. In terms of capability and technology they are no less than US Fighter jets. They just didn't get that kind of marketing which US does or rather impose their sale linking it to their foreign aid.
Also, its high time, that Pakistan should settle 'in full' its receivables with US for co-operating in War on Terror in Afghanistan, else unilaterally terminate the co-op agreement.
This is what a well equipped diplomacy can do provided it has the political backing for it.
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May 03, 2016 02:05pm
I am confused about comments saying Pakistan is getting $46B from China and that can be used to pay for the F-16s or they will give you their latest stealth fighters.
$46B is a loan over many years to pay for CPEC. Do you not think this mentality of expecting money as a freebie to be spent on bravado demeaning for a sovereign state?
Also, when has China 'given' you money? Are they not usually loans at tough commercial rates? This embarrassing reliance on China - opinions such as wanting to merge with them or thinking they will bail you out of everything is devoid of reality. Just one fact sums it up - how easy is it for a Pakistani to go to China. I don't about you but my brother does not stop me from going to his house.
Please have some self respect, self reliance, hard work, be humble, honest and the future will be for your children.
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May 03, 2016 02:33pm
I am glad the americans didnt give it to Pakistan...it was a high price for an obsolete machine more than twice the usual sale price... i hope this is the beginning of the end... the end of dependence on US and begging for money n arms
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May 03, 2016 02:38pm
@Vin For them to transfer technology the orders should be large enough. India's requirement of Su 30 MKI was in the range of 230 aircraft. So Russia transferred the technology and they are now being built in HAL.
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May 03, 2016 02:39pm
Cut the umbilical cord of this perhaps last remaining American leverage on Pakistan, the F16s. Go for Russian jets and put the Americans in their place once a for all.
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May 03, 2016 02:53pm
This is a simple case of America going back on its words and earlier promises
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May 03, 2016 03:03pm
@Truth Teller Good comment, The obsolete F 16 are very expensive there are numerous cheaper options aval for Pakistan which include 1. Eurofighter Typhoon T1 (Max 70 Million USD),
2. Mikoyan MIG 39 / 1.44 / MFI (Max 70 Million USD).
3. Saab Gripen JAS 39B (Max 61 Million USD)
4. Sukhoi Su-32 (Max 52 Million USD)
5. Sukhoi Su-33 (Max 55 Million USD)
6. Sukhoi Su-35 (Max 65 Million USD)
7. Sukhoi Su-47 (Max 70 Million USD)
8. Chengdu J-10 Vigorous Dragon (Max 41 Million USD)
9. Mikoyan MIG 35 (Max 30 Million USD)
10. Mikoyan MIG 31E Foxhound (Max 30 Million USD)
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May 03, 2016 03:05pm
Just wait for som time. India will provide you with Indian made F 16 at half the price.
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May 03, 2016 03:05pm
Many people said lets buy fith generation from Russia, Europe etc.
It's not a fish market. you need to be offered these technology.
Also few said china has given 46 billion. It's not cash it's investment.
800 millions are for accessories and spares with 8 jets!
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May 03, 2016 03:06pm
US$700 million can get Pakistan the following:
8 F16 Fighter jets
or
50 Primary schools
2 Complete Universities
5 Hospitals
50 Locomotive Engines
1000 Agricultural Tractors
It is up to Pakistan to decide what to do with its money..
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May 03, 2016 03:14pm
@Zulfikr Ali Khan(ZAK) good suggestion, but no embarrassment. US uses us , so we use them back. Now we will double the charge for them using supply routes to Afghanistan and we will get the money back. No problem, but we need to make an issue to make them feel the heat.
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May 03, 2016 03:43pm
CPEC fund is for the politicians not for Pakistan.
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May 03, 2016 03:47pm
@Ali Asghar nobody wanst to be educated. Education funds will slip into politicians pockets only so no need for that. At least F16 cannot be parked in their places.
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May 03, 2016 03:48pm
US is now no need of Pakistan. Pakistan should look for other option and learn from history regarding relations with US. US is now marginalizing Pakistan against India.
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May 03, 2016 03:50pm
Pakistan can easily pay off F-16.. Just buy them first and then make in Pakistan to sell to the world.. its not a bad deal
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May 03, 2016 03:56pm
There is always an option to buy from Russia or Chinese please donot rly on the US.
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May 03, 2016 04:01pm
@Zulfikr Ali Khan(ZAK) China is not giving you $46B cash! They are investing it in the infrastructure which is being built by Chinese companies. No one in Pakistan is getting money
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May 03, 2016 04:12pm
Pakistan should NOT a penny for these obsolete jets.
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May 03, 2016 04:17pm
@Bala US doesn't sell for self respect. It sells for money
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May 03, 2016 05:01pm
Pay from the corrupt leaders money in Panama leak and get f16
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May 03, 2016 05:11pm
Good job America,
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May 03, 2016 05:14pm
I think, Pakistan should buy from Russia and say No to US, this will serve two purposes, 1st US will realize that its not about funds its about trust, 2nd US needs to realize that US is not the only option for Pakistan
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May 03, 2016 05:18pm
Su-35 is superior over F-22. Stealth design maybe advantageous as long as you like to hide... But, I had seen that Su-35 can detect the stealth fighters at a distance of 90 Kilometers... American Flights depend on Radar than their naked eye... The addition of the electronic attack (EA) capability complicates matters for Western fighters because the Su-35’s advanced digital radio frequency memory jammers can seriously degrade the performance of friendly radars. It also effectively blinds the onboard radars found onboard American-made air-to-air missiles like the AIM-120 AMRAAM.
All I can say is that, Americans are interested in hiding by calling it Stealth, where as Su-35 can drag the rat from hole and kill... High altitude dominance goes to Su-35's favor...
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May 03, 2016 05:19pm
@Guest
We... Fools wil lalways remain fools..... China is investing 46 billion in pakstan hopig bigger rewards... nothign is coming free here... ITS ON CHINESE TERMS..... no knowledge transfer, no pakistani trained to build roads or bridges or dig tunnels.. it will be chinese engineers and workers and sales men here to do the job... finally thy will pay us a TRANSIT tax to take theri goods form Kashmir to Gwadar cheaper... thats all....
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May 03, 2016 05:20pm
How sad. Serves us right to not charge the US taxes on using our roads for their supplies to Afghanistan.
When will distance ourselves from this superpower?
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May 03, 2016 05:22pm
@Nilesh I bet India would need way more than us...
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May 03, 2016 05:22pm
In some ways, it is good for Pakistan. The nation should learn to stand on its own feet.
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May 03, 2016 05:36pm
US asks Pakistan to pay for F-16s... indeed, We are paying through our lives on the daily basis for the blunders we have committed, to get involve in the war between Capitalism and communism. between the clash of two titans.our past has made us bitter not better..we underestimate the ability of political leaders to misread history on a monumental scale. The invasions of Iraq and Afghanistan have both served to hasten western decline: they have both failed to achieve their objectives and in the process demonstrated an underlying western impotence and who suffered the most the general masses without the faults of their own.
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May 03, 2016 05:41pm
A Blessing in Disguise. The best news for Pakistan.
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May 03, 2016 05:45pm
@Ali Shah agree.. especially in an era of Drone Technology, why would you spend funds and energy on something that isn't worth it...
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May 03, 2016 05:50pm
And why not? You want something, pay for and buy it, b/c buying involves paying for the desired thing. It is the right thing to do. When you pay for the object, you own it and value it more. Gratis things are not valued as much and taken for granted. Unfortunately we have gotten used to gratis-ism. Look how everybody is happy for CPEC - which they need for their expanding need to exploit a short cut and willing to construct and pay for it - what Soviets tried so hard and for so long but could not. Our leadership is happily bickering and counting chickens before they actually hatch. The circle of gratis-ism must be broken. And this is surely a blessing in disguise.
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May 03, 2016 05:53pm
@ZAK , silly comment-you need the cash to buy the material locally build the infrastructure. So Pakistan gets the foreign exchange in cash.
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May 03, 2016 05:59pm
@Vishnu Shankar you needs t research more. Pakistan has already a J17 of its own making. But the F 16s are advanced precision guided and can carry more load. And they are needed now. The Indian Tejas took 40 years to build, it uses a GMC engine, not made in India as with other parts. And it is to counter Pakistans J 17s only. The SU35 are for the F 16s. But Pakistan is negotiating to buy the Su 35s as well. India needs to resolve kashmir and live in peace.
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May 03, 2016 06:01pm
@Patriotic good sentiments, that is why you should tell india to implement the UN resolution on kashmir and let peace prevail forever than the lot of the poor in the south asian sub continent can be bettered. India is the sole obstacle , holding the region hostage by its occupation of kashmir.
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May 03, 2016 06:10pm
Had Pakistanis and Indians understood the meaning of unity, US and other powerful countries had long gone out of arms business.
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May 03, 2016 06:14pm
@Aditya well said bro
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May 03, 2016 06:21pm
@Raaz we want everything for free, that's my world laugh at us
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May 03, 2016 06:24pm
Does Su35 comes for free?
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May 03, 2016 06:27pm
This is the sole right and authority of US to sell its hardware on any terms to any country.
A shame for Pakistani leadership of not investing in its human development. There is no long term policies have ever been seen. This is s country of daily policies.
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May 03, 2016 06:43pm
No need to get upset or embarrassed. Nothing new from the USA. InshaAllah, Pakistan will survive without the F16s. However, we must try to become self-reliant and look towards those who are our true friends. American 'friendship' has cost us so much. We have always been used by them. This must stop sometime and that time is NOW. We should keep moderately polite relationship with them and that is about it.
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May 03, 2016 06:46pm
Through times immemorial, US had always proved to be unreliable ally.
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May 03, 2016 06:47pm
Sincere request to my Pakistani friends.
1. Work hard.
2. Earn more.
3. Pay for the expensive and advanced military hardware.
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May 03, 2016 06:53pm
@Zak
Good argument.
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May 03, 2016 06:59pm
@usman ...Hope Pakistan could buy it... USA is not denying to sell it... Hope u got the point...Read well before comment
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May 03, 2016 07:04pm
United States has spent $1.59 trillion on the War on Terror. $815 billion on Iraq and $780 billion on Afghanistan, first destroying them and then re-building these enemy states. Pakistan being historic US ally for 65 years received only $20 billion, of this $13 billion was re-imbursement of Coalition Support Funds (CSF).
President Obama is an honorable leader who "approved" these 8 F-16s to Pakistan. This is a small deal but its symbolic of American support and friendship, yet there are some law makers who want to create hurdles. Regrettably, they are influenced by Indian lobby in Washington. India should not be "dictating" US foreign policy.
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May 03, 2016 07:08pm
@Guest : Pakistan is not getting 46bn dollar- it's a promise of investment for China's own good and that figure is also debatable . Most of the benefit from that is going back to China . wake up!
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May 03, 2016 07:13pm
But USA can always grant bn-$ allowances to provide Israil with the state-of-art machinery and money.
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May 03, 2016 07:13pm
@Raaz Really!
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May 03, 2016 07:39pm
@Tamil Guru: Good suggestion by the way Guru do you have any idea about Indian arms spending per annum, check.
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May 03, 2016 07:44pm
Its not really about the F-16s. We do need them, yet our sovereignty is far from more important. US is clearly dangling the planes infront of us to get Shakeel Afridi free.
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May 03, 2016 07:44pm
Good decision from US lawmakers. We can now buy weapons from elsewhere. We can even produce our own. USA has to stop hounding Pakistan for not doing more or for asking them to destroy the Haqqani network.
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May 03, 2016 07:52pm
@Nilesh, You still need a lot of courage. You can only make comments. I think India has the largest poor population in the world. My Indian friend was telling me that the money is not trickling down to the poor. The reason why so many Indians are seen working abroad.
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May 03, 2016 08:07pm
@Truth Teller Who told you that F16 costs around $20 millions? Check google and you will be surprised. It is around $100 millions.
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May 03, 2016 08:13pm
Oh Man!! its shame and too costly for a developing country. Please ask your neighbour for HAL Tejas - USD 31.6 million like you bought 5000 mw electricity from us.
Let us stop others exploiting our relationship and spend unnecessarily for weapons.
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May 03, 2016 08:44pm
@Raju resolve Kashmir as per UN resolution, then we can help you in getting Tejas to fly and perhaps throw in training your pilots as well , to perform better.
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May 03, 2016 09:09pm
@Zak What's the first condition in the UN resolution? India is eagerly awaiting its implementation.
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May 03, 2016 09:27pm
Better spend this money on education
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May 03, 2016 10:11pm
@Azm Khan
Don't worry about India
Look at the disaster that is your country
India may not be perfect but we are better off than you guys
You need to look at poverty in YOUR country, lack of science education, poor education standards, lack of right for women - it s a long list
Save your prayers for your own country
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May 03, 2016 10:32pm
Think Pakistan should invest in a packet of rockets. I am willing to shell out 129 rs and gift my friends a packet having 12 rockets with a matchbox free.
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May 03, 2016 10:42pm
@Ali Shah F16 is the best fourth generation fighter money can buy. Service life if you do not put them in storage is around 47 years. The current order backlog is until 2017 and that shows the demand. US have 1200 of these in there fleet. The U.S. Air Force will retain a substantial fleet of F-16s for years and those aircraft will need to be upgraded at some point and of them, the latest is the F16V (Viper) which they are offering to Indonesia.
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May 03, 2016 10:54pm
@Truth Teller F35 ???? US is unable to afford this aircraft how can other countries? Over $2 billion has already been spent over the original budget for the production and deployment of F35. In US there is also a debate if F35 is worth that cost? I think the secrecy around this F35 will not let US to even offer it for sale. Israel, for example, is already lobbying to make sure its Arab neighbors, many of whom also operate versions of the F-16 will not be allowed to buy the stealth new jet. But given so many failures already that also delayed the production of F35 now US may want to recover some of the cost or losses by selling some of them to other countries.
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May 03, 2016 10:56pm
@Countrymen 300 SU 35 and 150 MIG35??? Did you even think once before quoting these numbers
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May 03, 2016 11:06pm
Time to say thank you but no, we will not be intimidated.
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May 03, 2016 11:38pm
We had a history related with F-!6's.
When we had proudly introduced JF-!7, why do we need to back again? I think the defence minister (1980's and present) can answer that question.
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May 03, 2016 11:57pm
God provide us to use opportunity to say, bye bye US,
this very good time to come out hand from US Aaqa,
and refresh our policy with Russia and france
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May 03, 2016 11:58pm
God provide us to use opportunity to say, bye bye US,
this very good time to come out hand from US Aaqa,
and refresh our policy with Russia and france
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May 04, 2016 12:16am
@Voice of Reason no need to teach us, first learn not to occupy other nations, the cause of all the problems.
Do you know the revenues Pakistan will earn from CPEC. Each lorry that crosses the border into Pakistan, then the tolls on the way, and the foreign cash spent by transporters. The jobs created, the Gawadar shipping , loading and other duties. Not to mention, other countries like Afgahnistan and Iran linking up to CPEC. This is a game changer, it only needs good handling and management by the government.
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May 04, 2016 12:27am
@Abdulla Hussain India spends about $45 billion a year on defence.
It also finds money to fund a space program at $1 billion a year.
It has a school lunch program feeding a 150 million kids every day for the school year which is the largest in the world.
It has highly subsidized university education which is near free for IIT's and IIM's.
It has an economy growing at 7.5 % set to accelerate to pay for all these.:):)
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May 04, 2016 08:05am
@Guest Remember 46 billions from china is a sort of loan on high interest, and Chinese know how to recover their money very well... and not to forget china is also equally unpredictable. Only practical solution for Pakistan is to make permanent peace with India.
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May 04, 2016 08:43am
Nawaz and Zardari can pay from there foreign account for these planes...very easily
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May 04, 2016 08:46am
I dont know why India is worried about Pak's aquiring only few planes when India is piling up with hundreds of latest war planes from Russia, France etc.Seems India has the right to defence itself , small neighbours left vulnerable! What a double standard policy!!
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May 04, 2016 09:25am
Good for Pakistan.
Need to use this money to improve life of its people.
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May 04, 2016 09:26am
I don't think Pakistan can pay for f16 jets from its own funds .
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May 04, 2016 09:52am
Pakistan should now should take charges of those logistic supply of military truck goes from Karachi port to Afghanistan.
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May 04, 2016 10:15am
No matter what, Pakistan needs to stand firm on matter of Dr.Afridi. Not getting the F16s would be a set back but getting them by handing over Dr.Afridi to USA would be a much bigger set back.
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May 04, 2016 10:24am
Amazing to note that some comments ask to use CPEC funds for buying F16s.
Is that the only source of earning for a big country like Pakistan?
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May 04, 2016 11:20am
This is how a proper businessman works, never disappoints his rival customers.
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May 04, 2016 01:15pm
Its in Pakistan intrest to Buy Russian or Chines planes !
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May 04, 2016 02:00pm
@ali - Iran has Natural resources... They can survive with them.. Can you?
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May 04, 2016 02:04pm
@Hassan this money can be spent in a way to benefit the whole country. Why do we need this junk.
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May 04, 2016 02:04pm
@Abdulla Hussain - Arent you fighting your own war? arent those terrorists killing your people?
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May 04, 2016 02:36pm
@Zak "
it only needs good handling and management by the government.
That's the million dollar question your nation faces.All the best
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May 04, 2016 02:36pm
@Zak : Yes, , your country has to act first as per the resolution, go ahead
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May 04, 2016 04:41pm
@Krishna I agree.
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May 04, 2016 05:00pm
@Ali Shah So right Ali Shah. Obsolete technology, true but payment by US will help our leaders stack more funds in Panama and other countries.
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May 04, 2016 05:51pm
Pak should pay full price
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May 04, 2016 07:05pm
Buy Russian SU-35's indtead. Bye Bye USA.
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May 04, 2016 07:17pm
@Guest
except that China will demand they buy chinese fighter so goodbye to the F16 deal.
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May 04, 2016 07:21pm
@Truth Teller agreed
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May 04, 2016 07:45pm
From double crossing US after 9/11, harboring Osama just to name a few infamous act of a aspiring prideful nation. Still prideful in demanding subsidies on expensive toys. Audacious
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May 04, 2016 09:06pm
@Vishnu Shankar The 30 year old plane that the Tejas is, is already outdated by todays standards. Nothing even close to Su-30MKI or MiG-29SMT or K. Even a basic search technological background and what is used and how much energy is imputed into the radar systems from the APU will prove you wrong too.
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May 04, 2016 09:29pm
@Zak biggest loss is Nawaz Sharif
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May 04, 2016 10:42pm
Pakistan needs to spend more on economy than on bombs.
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May 05, 2016 09:58pm
This is just a drama. US govt had no intention of funding the sale. They simply did not bother to prevent the congressional veto.
USA can never be relied upon as an ally.
That is the basic fact.
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