DefensePeru announces plan to purchase of 12 subsonic aircraft for border control
The Peruvian Ministry of Defense has announced plans to acquire 12 subsonic aircraft to support border surveillance and counter-narcotics missions. The announcement was made by Defense Minister Walter Astudillo Chávez during a session at the National Defense and Internal Order Commission of Congress.
According to Astudillo, the procurement is intended to enhance the country’s ability to control its airspace, particularly in response to the complex challenge posed by Peru’s over 7,000 kilometers of land borders. The move comes as part of broader efforts to modernize the Peruvian Air Force’s capabilities.
The Peruvian Air Force currently operates 20 Cessna A-37 Dragonfly jets, which are considered outdated for contemporary surveillance and interdiction tasks.
While the government has not specified the model to be acquired, aircraft such as the Embraer A-29 Super Tucano and Beechcraft AT-6 Wolverine are cited as operational references for similar missions in other countries. Both are turboprop platforms designed for light attack and reconnaissance roles, offering versatility for counter-insurgency and border patrol operations.
New subsonic fleet to replace aging A-37 jets
In addition to the subsonic aircraft purchase, Peru is planning the acquisition of 24 supersonic combat jets later this year. The Air Force is evaluating candidates including the Saab Gripen E/F and the Lockheed Martin F-16 Block 70. The combination of subsonic and supersonic fleets is aimed at providing layered air defense and surveillance capabilities.
The selection of the new subsonic aircraft is expected to focus on operational flexibility, cost-effectiveness, and suitability for extended border patrols. The addition of modern platforms is expected to address current gaps in airspace surveillance and interdiction, particularly in regions affected by illicit trafficking.
Next steps include finalizing the selection process and procurement negotiations. The new aircraft are anticipated to gradually replace the A-37 fleet, with delivery timelines and specific contract details yet to be disclosed.
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