About time too! Our 14 or so remaining Hercules are getting quite old!
US notifies Congress for sale
of six C-130s to Pakistan
T V Parasuram in Washington
The United States is planning to sell six C-130E Cargo aircraft and accessories worth $ 75 million to Pakistan.
The Defence Security Cooperation Agency has notified Congress of a possible sale of the aircraft, associated equipment and services. The total value, if all options are exercised, could be as high as $75 million, the Pentagon said.
Pakistan’s acquisition of these aircraft and support will not affect the basic military balance in the region, it added.
“Pakistan needs these aircraft to support a current and long-term airlift shortfall, both for Pakistan Air Force’s internal requirements, and as it seeks to support the US government with Operation Enduring Freedom. These aircraft will be used for the purpose of providing airlift support.”
The proposed sale “will contribute to the foreign policy and national security of the United States by helping to improve the security of a friendly country which has been and continues to be an important force for economic progress in South Asia,” the Pentagon press release said.
The Pakistan government, it said, had requested six used C-130E aircraft with engines, spare parts, training personnel, equipment, logistics support and assistance in upgradation of engines.
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July 17, 2002 at 9:31 am