Pakistan Air Force (PAF) operates a diverse fleet of advanced fighter jets sourced from China, the United States, and France, reflecting a strategy of maintaining a mix of capabilities from multiple suppliers. Despite the availability of modern Chinese aircraft, the PAF continues to rely heavily on US-made F-16 jets, which remain a cornerstone of its air defense capabilities.
The F-16’s enduring role is largely due to its proven performance in various operational scenarios, highly advanced avionics, and decades of accumulated operational experience. These jets offer a combination of agility, precision targeting, and multi-role functionality that newer aircraft are still matching in terms of reliability and combat readiness.
Recent analyses emphasize that while China-supplied jets contribute to modernization and diversify capabilities, the F-16 fleet remains indispensable for maintaining air superiority, ensuring rapid response, and supporting Pakistan’s broader air defense strategy. The blend of older but battle-tested F-16s with newer platforms enables the PAF to balance modernization with operational reliability, providing a robust and flexible defense posture.
