India concerned over F-16 aircraft package for Pakistan

India's Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has expressed concern regarding the military assistance being provided by the United States to Pakistan. During a conversation between Rajnath Singh and US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth during the ASEAN summit in Cebu, Philippines, the issue of the F-16 fighter jet sustainment package being received by Pakistan was raised. Recently, approval has been granted to Pakistan for a $686 million upgrade package, which India has questioned.

According to a report by Hindustan Times, India is also concerned that Pakistan might share this advanced American technology with a 'third country', which could be an indication towards China. Rajnath Singh warned that transferring sensitive technology to Pakistan is risky, as there is a possibility of arms-related knowledge leaking to other countries.

During this meeting, both leaders reviewed the progress made under the 10-year US-India Major Defence Partnership Framework. Rajnath Singh stated on X that under this framework, focus has been placed on bringing strategic synergy in sectors such as military technology, information exchange, and co-production. Pete Hegseth also celebrated the first anniversary of this partnership.

On the issue of terrorism, Rajnath Singh emphasised that there should be no double standards against terrorism. He said that the international community should adopt a 'zero-tolerance' approach against countries that support, train, or provide funds to terrorist organisations. Pete Hegseth reiterated America's full support to India in the fight against cross-border terrorism.

Additionally, Rajnath Singh also held bilateral discussions with the defence ministers of Japan, Australia, and South Korea. In a meeting with Japan's Defence Minister Shinjiro Kozumi, he spoke about strengthening the India-Japan strategic partnership.