A Pakistani request to procure F-16 fighters from the United States through the Foreign Military Sales program has received U.S. State Department approval.

The proposed deal for eight fighters -- together with other equipment, training, and logistics support -- is worth an estimated $699.04 million.

"The proposed sale improves Pakistan's capability to meet current and future security threats," the Defense Security Cooperation Agency said in its notification to Congress. "These additional F-16 aircraft will facilitate operations in all-weather, non-daylight environments, provide a self-defense/area suppression capability, and enhance Pakistan's ability to conduct counter-insurgency and counterterrorism operations."

DSCA manages the FMS program.

The fighters Pakistan requested would be C and D models with with the F100-PW-229 increased performance engine. Included in the deal would be Joint Helmet Mounted Cueing systems, AN/APG-68(V)9 radars, and ALQ-211(V)9 Advanced Integrated Defensive Electronic Warfare Suites.

Spare and repair parts, support and test equipment, personnel training and training equipment, and logistics would also be part of the proposed sale.