Did the US Halt New AMRAAM Deliveries to Pakistan?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- US clarifies that no new AMRAAMs are being delivered to Pakistan.
- The contract amendment focuses on sustainment and spare parts.
- No upgrades to Pakistan's military capabilities are included.
- This statement addresses misinformation circulating in the media.
- US-Pakistan defense relations are under scrutiny amidst changing dynamics.
New Delhi, Oct 10 (NationPress) The US Embassy and Consulates in India released a statement on Friday, clarifying that a recent revision to an American Foreign Military Sales (FMS) contract with Pakistan does not encompass new deliveries of Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missiles (AMRAAMs). This modification is strictly limited to sustainment and spare parts support.
The US emphasized that "contrary to inaccurate media reports, this contract modification does not involve deliveries of new AMRAAMs to Pakistan." The sustainment package “does not include any upgrades to Pakistan’s existing capabilities.”
The statement counters earlier claims suggesting that Islamabad had been listed as a recipient of newly produced AMRAAMs following a September 30 Department of War contract announcement. Several news outlets had interpreted the amendment as an indication of potential new arms supplies to Pakistan.
On September 30, the Department of War unveiled a list of standard contract announcements, which included an amendment to an existing Foreign Military Sales contract aimed at sustainment and spare parts for multiple nations, including Pakistan.
Reports indicate that the contract involved a modification to a previously awarded Raytheon project (FA8675‑23‑C‑0037) focused on the production of the AMRAAM C8 and D3 variants. The deal attracted significant attention as it included various nations under the FMS framework, with Pakistan's involvement stirring considerable speculation.
The US reiterated that this contract amendment does not signify a transfer of new weaponry. Instead, it pertains to logistics, spare parts, maintenance, and the sustainment of systems already in Pakistan’s arsenal. No enhancements or upgrades to its capabilities are being provided.
This development occurs against the backdrop of shifting US-Pakistan relations, where defense cooperation has come under close scrutiny in South Asia.