'Compromising India's security': Congress targets Centre over US aid to Pakistan's F-16 fleet

NEW DELHI: The Congress on Tuesday raised questions about the Centre diplomatic strategy after reports emerged of US President Donald Trump allocating $397 million for the maintenance of Pakistan's F-16 fleet.
The opposition party called for a reassessment of India's foreign policy priorities to safeguard national interests.
The government and the ruling BJP have not yet responded to the criticism.
Congress media head Pawan Khera said the move raises serious concerns about the effectiveness of Modi's diplomacy.

"The recent decision by President Donald Trump to allocate $397 million for Pakistan's F-16 fleet maintenance raises critical questions about the Modi government's diplomatic efficacy," Khera said.
"This move, reminiscent of the 2022 Biden administration's $450 million package for the same purpose, highlights a pattern of US military support to Pakistan. Such actions potentially compromise India's security interests, especially given the historical use of F-16s by Pakistan against India," he added.
Drawing parallels to the Biden administration's $450 million package in 2022 for the same purpose, Khera mentioned about a pattern of US military support to Pakistan, potentially compromising India's security, given Pakistan's historical use of F-16s against India.

Khera pointed out that during the UPA years (2004–2014), India significantly deepened strategic and defence ties with the US, enhancing military modernization, technology transfer, nuclear energy collaboration, and counter-terrorism efforts.
He argued that these initiatives bolstered India's defence capabilities and global influence, underscoring the Congress party's approach of maintaining strategic autonomy.
Khera also expressed concerns over recent defence negotiations, particularly the proposed purchase of F-35 fighter jets from the US, which he criticised as costly and operationally challenging.
He cited tech mogul Elon Musk's remark calling the F-35 “junk” and noted Russia's offer to manufacture advanced Su-57 jets in India as a potentially more viable option.
In light of these developments, Khera questioned the Modi government's diplomatic strategy and asked if there was a comprehensive plan to address the implications of US military aid to Pakistan. He also urged the government to ensure that India's security concerns are not overshadowed by high-value defence deals.
Khera added by calling for a reassessment of India's foreign policy, suggesting that the grand old party's legacy of strategic foresight could provide valuable insights to safeguard national interests.