The United States has denied reports of new missile deliveries to Pakistan, confirming that Islamabad will not receive new AIM-120 AMRAAMs under the latest defense contract. In a statement issued by the US Embassy in India, Washington clarified that the $41.6 million contract modification only covers maintenance, spare parts, and sustainment services for existing systems — not fresh missile shipments or capability upgrades.
Key Highlights
- False Reports: Regional media had misinterpreted a US Department of War contract as a new missile sale.
- Official Clarification: US Embassy says it’s only sustainment for older AMRAAM systems.
- Existing Stock: Pakistan already owns approx. 700 AMRAAMs, procured in 2007 for its F-16 fleet.
- Geopolitical Timing: Clarification comes amid warming US-Pakistan ties and sensitive India-Pakistan tensions.
What Happened
On September 30, 2025, the US Department of War announced a contract modification with Raytheon Missiles & Defense as part of a multi-country Foreign Military Sales program.
South Asian media interpreted this as Washington supplying new AMRAAM missiles to Pakistan.
But on October 10, the US Embassy in New Delhi firmly denied those claims, calling the reports “false” and emphasizing that “no new missiles or capability upgrades are part of this deal.”
Timeline of Events
- Sept 30, 2025: DoW announces a $2.51 billion AMRAAM sustainment contract covering 30+ countries.
- Early Oct 2025: Pakistani and regional outlets claim Islamabad is getting new missiles.
- Oct 10, 2025: US Embassy issues a clarification denying any new missile transfer.
- May 2030: Scheduled completion of the overall multi-nation sustainment program.
Countries Covered Under the Contract
The sustainment contract involves multiple allies, including UK, Germany, Israel, Australia, Japan, Qatar, and Pakistan, with Raytheon as the primary contractor.
Why It Matters
This clarification comes at a sensitive geopolitical moment:
- In 2019, Pakistan used AMRAAMs against India during the Balakot aerial confrontation.
- India has expressed concerns over any potential enhancement of Pakistan’s F-16 capabilities.
- The Trump administration is simultaneously deepening strategic and economic ties with Islamabad, including investment in critical minerals.
Official Statements
US Embassy in India
“Contrary to false media reports, no part of this referenced contract modification is for deliveries of new AMRAAMs to Pakistan.
“The sustainment does not include an upgrade to any of Pakistan's current capabilities.”
Pakistan
No official statement from Islamabad so far, though Dawn newspaper and other outlets initially reported the contract as a “new missile deal.”
Expert Reactions
- War on the Rocks: Called Pakistan’s reaction “tactical signaling” aimed at showcasing closer US ties.
- FDD Analysts: Highlighted that this comes alongside Pakistan’s strategic defense pact with Saudi Arabia.
- Indian Defense Analysts: Welcomed the US clarification as “a positive signal for maintaining the regional aerial balance.”
Economic & Strategic Context
- The contract sustains Pakistan’s existing F-16 fleet without altering its combat capability.
- US retains leverage in Pakistan’s defense sector through maintenance dependence.
- India receives strategic reassurance but remains cautious of Pakistan’s growing diplomatic proximity to Washington.
Wider Geopolitical Angle
- Trump administration’s tactical engagement with Pakistan is seen as a balancing move in South Asia.
- Pakistan is diversifying its alliances — strengthening ties with the US and Saudi Arabia while maintaining links with China.
- This incident underscores how routine defense contracts can escalate diplomatic noise in sensitive regions.
FAQs
Q1: Is the US supplying Pakistan with new AMRAAM missiles?
No. The US Embassy has clearly stated that no new missiles or upgrades are part of the contract.
Q2: What is covered in the $41.6 million deal?
The contract is only for maintenance, spare parts, and sustainment services of existing AMRAAM systems.
Q3: How many AMRAAMs does Pakistan currently have?
Pakistan purchased around 700 AMRAAM missiles in 2007 to equip its F-16 jets.
Q4: Why is this issue sensitive for India?
Because AMRAAMs were used in the 2019 aerial engagement with India. Any upgrade could shift the aerial balance in the region.
Q5: When will the contract be completed?
The multi-nation sustainment program is scheduled for completion by May 2030.
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