The US denies reports of supplying AIM-120 air-to-air missiles to Pakistan. The embassy recently issued a clarification, calling such media reports “false” and saying that “no part of this referenced contract modification is for deliveries of new Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missiles (AMRAAMs) to Pakistan”.

However, the embassy clarified that the contract mentioned in those reports is related to maintenance and spare parts for several countries, including Pakistan. This means the agreement might involve the repair or replacement of older missile parts, but not the delivery of new ones. Some analysts believe this could suggest that Pakistan may have used some of its missiles recently and is now seeking to replenish its stock.

This clarification comes soon after Operation Sindoor, during which India and Pakistan were reportedly engaged in aerial operations. The timing of the clarification is important because several news outlets had claimed that the US was planning to send AIM-120 AMRAAM missiles to Pakistan. These reports sparked debate that the move could strengthen Pakistan’s F-16 fighter jets and potentially shift the regional air power balance.

The US Embassy, however, strongly denied these claims. It stated that the contract is only for “sustainment”, which means maintaining existing systems and equipment, not providing new or upgraded weapons. The embassy also highlighted that the US government is careful to avoid actions that could be seen as changing the military balance in South Asia.

According to official details, the US Department of War had signed a USD 41.7 million contract with Raytheon Missiles & Defense to continue producing AMRAAM missiles (C-8 and D-3 versions). The total value of the overall project is about USD 2.5 billion, with work expected to be completed by May 30, 2030. This large contract includes over 30 allied nations, Pakistan being just one of them.

The embassy made it clear that this agreement does not represent a new weapons deal or a boost to Pakistan’s air combat capabilities. Instead, it is a routine maintenance contract, part of regular US defense cooperation programs with allied countries.