F-16s for Pak, F-35s for India: Trump’s maverick powerplay in South Asia

In a controversial move, the Trump administration has approved a $397 million package for Pakistan’s F-16 fighter jet fleet, while offering India the advanced F-35 Lightning II jet. This dual approach aims to recalibrate South Asia’s power dynamics, but raises concerns about Pakistan’s potential misuse of the F-16s.

​In a controversial move, the Trump administration has approved a $397 million package for Pakistan’s F-16 fighter jet fleet, while offering India the advanced F-35 Lightning II jet. This dual approach aims to recalibrate South Asia’s power dynamics, but raises concerns about Pakistan’s potential misuse of the F-16s.