SHAFAQNA PAKISTAN (Shia News Agency)
The US State Department approved a $1 billion sale of attack helicopters, missiles and logistical support to Pakistan. The sale includes 15 AH-1Z Viper attack helicopters and 1,000 AGM-114R Hellfire II missiles, associated equipment, parts, training and logistical support with an estimated cost of $952 million, according to a statement by the Defense Security Cooperation Agency, which provides financial, technical and other services to U.S. allies. The State Department has approved the sale saying the “helicopters and weapon systems will provide Pakistan with military capabilities in support of its counter terrorism and counter-insurgency operations in South Asia,” the Pentagon’s defence sales arms said Tuesday.
Indeed it is a good news for Pakistan army that is fighting hardcore militants in its tribal areas. This deal will strengthen the defence and offence of Pakistan army in the tribal area, however what are the motives of US behind this deal? This deal has come at a time when Pakistani government also confirmed the purchase of eight new submarines from China . From 2010 to 2014, Pakistan was one of the top five importers of military equipment worldwide, according to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute.
While it is important for Pakistan to enhance its capabilities in view of the insurgency at home, the cost of achieving such cannot be ignored. Spending over Rs100bn of taxpayers’ money is a big decision, and the proposed sale serves as a reminder of the country’s reality. A poor country, which ought to be spending on health, education and human development, remains in pursuit of advanced and expensive military equipment. It could be argued that it is primarily its security situation and regional competition that is guiding this decision. Regardless, it is unfortunate that so much has to be spent on things that destroy rather than on building what is desperately needed.
It is also point to ponder that why this aid has been provided at a time when Pakistan is mulling over to whether to fight or not Saudian war in Yemen. Instead of cheering this deal Pakistan should calculate the pros and cons of this deal.
pakistan.shafaqna.com
