US to deliver laser-guiding bomb kits to Pakistan to aid fight against Taliban
By Anne Flaherty, APTuesday, March 2, 2010
US to share laser-guiding bomb kits with Pakistan
WASHINGTON — The U.S. will deliver this month to Pakistan 1,000 sophisticated laser-guided bomb kits that would enable the government there to strike insurgent targets with more precision.
The arms sale suggests that U.S. officials are trying to deepen America’s relationship with Pakistan and increase military cooperation. The U.S. has been trying to encourage Pakistan to take a tougher stand against Taliban forces operating within its borders.
Lt. Col. Jeffry Glenn, an Air Force spokesman, said Tuesday the U.S. had delivered 1,000 MK-82 bombs to Pakistan last month. This month’s shipment of kits would enable Pakistan to use sophisticated laser technology to guide the bombs to specific targets.
Glenn said the U.S. also plans to provide Pakistan 18 new F-16 fighter jets by June.
