Lockheed Martin to supply upgraded P3 Orion, F-16s to Pakistan

Karachi: US aerospace and armaments manufacturer Lockheed Martin has said it is in discussions to supply upgraded P3 Orion surveillance aircraft to the Pakistani Navy, along with upgraded F-16 jets and C-130 transport planes to the Air Force. According to the company's Middle East and Africa president James Jamerson discussions for the upgrade of the Orion aircraft were on with Pakistan's ministry of defence.

Speaking on the sidelines of the International Defence Exhibition and Seminar (IDEAS) 2008 held here at Karachi, Jamerson said discussions had also taken place with the country's chief of naval staff and the air chief. "I have discussed with the naval chief the project to upgrade Orion aircraft," he said.

According to Jamerson, the aircraft would be upgraded in the US and returned to Pakistan soon.

Regarding the supply of F-16 jets, he said, "We are also supplying equipment and parts to Pakistan for F-16s overhauled in Pakistan. Similarly, we are also upgrading F-16s in the US for supply to Pakistan."

James said his company was also upgrading a number of C-130s for the Pakistan Air Force in the US.