On December 1, 2025, the United States approved a potential military sale to Bahrain worth up to $445 million, covering support for F-16 aircraft and a wide range of associated components and services. The deal expands a previous $47 million support package and aims to enhance the operational readiness of the Royal Bahraini Air Force.
The package includes aircraft components, missile containers, radar spares, guidance and control parts, weapon systems support, ground handling equipment, and laboratory devices.
It also encompasses prior activities from the initial support agreement, such as technical modifications, software delivery, maintenance equipment, logistics, and engineering services, ensuring long-term fleet readiness.
General Electric Aerospace and Lockheed Martin Aeronautics have been designated as prime contractors to implement the sustainability efforts, focusing on continuous operations and long-term readiness as part of a decades-long modernization program.
This initiative follows Bahrain’s ongoing expansion and upgrade of its F-16 fleet, including prior deals for Block 70 and F-16V aircraft and the modernization of older aircraft to maintain national defense capability and interoperability with U.S. forces and regional allies.
Bahrain’s F-16 program dates back to the late 1980s, with the selection of the Block 40 variant. The first aircraft were delivered between 1989 and 1990 and participated in defensive and offensive operations during the Gulf War.
Over the years, the fleet has been upgraded with advanced weaponry including AIM-120, AGM-88, AGM-84, and GBU-39, culminating in the acquisition of modern Block 70 F-16V aircraft, with the first units delivered in early 2023.
Currently, Bahrain operates around twenty F-16 Block 40 aircraft and five new Block 70 aircraft, with additional deliveries planned under the ongoing production and delivery program, ensuring a highly capable air force ready to address regional threats and participate in joint operations with the United States and allied partners.
