WASHINGTON : Pakistan has requested a C-130 Fleet Upgrade Programme from the US government under a possible Foreign Military Sale (FMS) at a cost of approximately $100 million. The Defence Security Cooperation Agency notified US Congress of the request on March 11th. The package would include C-130B/E avionics upgrades, engine management and mechanical upgrades, cargo delivery system installation, and the replacement of outer wing sets on six aircraft.
Associated equipment, parts, training and logistical support would also be included in the sale.
The Pakistan C-130 fleet consists of five C-130B and 11 C-130E model aircraft. The fleet is facing airworthiness and obsolescence issues, and requires upgrades and repairs for continued operation and effectiveness.
If it goes ahead, the FMS would facilitate the continued operation of the Pakistan Air Force's C-130 aircraft for counter-insurgency/counter-terrorism flights; regional humanitarian operations; troop transport; and intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions within Pakistan and in the region.