Peru has confirmed the selection of the Lockheed Martin F-16 Block 70 as the future fighter aircraft for its air force, formalizing a decision taken under the previous administration and now being carried forward by the current government.
President José María Balcázar said the procurement will proceed despite not being a priority for his administration, citing an existing agreement with the United States. The aircraft will replace the Peruvian Air Force’s aging MiG-29 and Dassault Mirage 2000 fleets.
The F-16 Block 70 had been widely seen as the leading candidate and ultimately prevailed over competing offers from the Saab Gripen E/F and Dassault Rafale.
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Peru is set to receive the most advanced F-16 version in South America. Chile operates earlier-generation F-16 variants acquired over the past two decades, while Venezuela still flies a small number of F-16A/B jets. Argentina, in turn, is preparing to introduce second-hand F-16A/B aircraft.
The proposed acquisition, valued at up to $3.42 billion, includes an initial batch of 12 aircraft — ten single-seat F-16C and two twin-seat F-16D — with the possibility of additional units later.
The package also comprises F110-GE-129 engines, AN/APG-83 AESA radars, AIM-9X and AIM-120C-8 air-to-air missiles, targeting pods, electronic warfare systems, training and logistical support.
The first tranche is expected to replace the MiG-29 fleet, while a follow-on order could address the retirement of the Mirage 2000. While Peru and Argentina opted for the F-16, Brazil and Colombia selected the Saab Gripen E/F for their future fighter requirements.
