US approves major F-16 upgrades for Poland in $7.3 billion deal

The United States on Wednesday (October 23) approved a $7.3 billion sale to upgrade Poland’s F-16 fighter jets, enhancing the defenses of a North Atlantic Treaty Organisationn (Nato) ally that borders war-torn Ukraine.

The Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) said the proposed sale supports US foreign policy and national security by strengthening a key partner in Europe.

“The F-16 Viper Midlife Upgrade (MLU) will bolster Poland’s air defense and surveillance capabilities, support national security, and strengthen Poland’s defense and contributions to Nato,” the DSCA said in a statement.

The State Department approved the potential sale, and the DSCA has notified Congress, which must still approve the deal, AFP reported.

About F-16 fighter jet

The F-16 Fighting Falcon is a versatile multirole fighter aircraft. Built by Lockheed Martin, this 4th generation is known for its advanced avionics, agility, and combat capabilities.

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Key features include the APG-83 AESA radar, providing enhanced situational awareness, and the Link-16 data link for real-time information sharing. The aircraft boasts advanced electronic warfare systems, precision-guided munitions capabilities, and can carry a wide variety of air-to-air and air-to-ground weapons.

The fighter jet is equipped with a 20mm cannon and can carry bombs, rockets and missiles.

However, the planes require carefully maintained runways and highly trained ground crews.

Ukraine, too, has F-16s

Earlier, in August, Ukraine had received the first batch of F-16 fighter jets. That development had come after months of lobbying by Kyiv.

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Ukraine had said that the fighter jets were critical in fighting back against the onslaught of missiles Russia had been firing against it. The West has hesitated in providing the jets, amid previous concerns that arming Ukraine with advanced weaponry would escalate the war with Russia.

With inputs from agencies