DefenseUnited States approves possible sale of F-16 fighters to Peru
The United States Department of State has cleared a possible Foreign Military Sale to Peru involving F-16 Block 70 fighter jets and related equipment, with an estimated value of $3.42 billion. The notification was formally sent to the US Congress by the Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA).
Under the request, the Peruvian government aims to acquire ten F-16C Block 70 and two F-16D Block 70 aircraft. The package also includes 14 F110-GE-129 engines, 12 AIM-120C-8 AMRAAM air-to-air missiles, 52 LAU-129 guided launchers, and 12 M61A1 20mm cannons. Additional systems such as GPS navigation, AN/APG-83 radars, and mission computers are part of the proposed deal.
The F-16 Block 70 is the latest production standard of the single-engine multirole fighter, featuring updated avionics, radar, and structural enhancements. The AN/APG-83 AESA radar is designed to provide improved air-to-air and air-to-ground capabilities. The aircraft are intended to enhance the Peruvian Air Force’s capacity for airspace control and precision ground-attack missions.
Lockheed Martin, General Electric Aerospace, and RTX Corporation have been named as the main contractors for the potential US-Peru deal. According to the DSCA, the proposed sale is not expected to alter the basic military balance in the region, but it is designed to reinforce long-term military cooperation between the two countries.
Saab Gripen is the main challenger
Current Peruvian Air Force fighter assets include Dassault Mirage 2000 and Mikoyan MiG-29 jets, both of which are considered outdated in terms of avionics and systems. Additionally, the country operates Sukhoi Su-25 ground-attack aircraft. The modernization effort aims to replace or supplement these older platforms.
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longside negotiations with the United States, Peru is also exploring the acquisition of Saab Gripen E/F fighters. The Swedish government has authorized a possible sale of 24 aircraft, which would include the GlobalEye airborne early warning platform.
The notification to Congress is a procedural step and does not constitute a final agreement. If approved, contract negotiations and detailed technical discussions are expected to follow, defining delivery timelines and operational integration.
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