US approves F-16 sale to Pakistan

The United States said Friday it had approved selling up to eight Lockheed Martin F-16 fighter jets to Pakistan, along with training, radar and other equipment, worth a total of $699 million.

The Defense Security Cooperation Agency, which coordinates such foreign arms sales, said it had informed Congress of the plans on Thursday.

The F-16 aircraft would allow  "enhance Pakistan's ability to conduct counter-insurgency, counterterrorism operations."

Pakistan's arch-rival India said it was "disappointed" by the possible sale. A report said India was planning to summon the US ambassador "to convey displeasure."

The Defense Security Cooperation Agency stressed, however, that "the proposed sale of this equipment and support will not alter the basic military balance in the region."