In response to Peru’s Protection Ministry, a high-level delegation will go to Washington D.C. from Could 4 to 7. It should talk about a possible F-16 buy. They may meet U.S. Protection Secretary Pete Hegseth.
This journey comes amid an open tender to interchange Peru’s growing older MiG-29 and Mirage 2000 jets. Peru plans to purchase 24 multirole fighters: 20 single-seat and 4 two-seat plane.
The federal government secured a 7.58 billion-sol mortgage from Banco de la Nación beneath the 2025 funds. This mortgage, equal to about $2 billion, will fund the primary 12 jets. It should finance the remaining plane in 2026.
Peru first acquired Mirage 2000 jets in 1984 to counter regional tensions. Later, it added MiG-29 fighters in 1988 beneath bilateral agreements. These platforms now face obsolescence after greater than 35 years in service.
Peru’s present fleet endures frequent upkeep points and spare-part shortages. These elements have eroded flight-readiness ranges. In the meantime, neighboring air forces additionally pursue upgrades to keep away from obsolescence.
Regional officers cite deterrence and counter-narcotics as key mission drivers. Delegates will consider Lockheed Martin’s F-16V Block 70, Saab’s Gripen E/F, and Dassault’s Rafale F4.
Peru’s Fighter Jet Acquisition
The F-16V provides a confirmed fight file, superior avionics, and a worldwide assist community. The Gripen delivers decrease working prices and broad technology-transfer clauses.
The Rafale supplies multirole capabilities, AESA radar, and stealth-enhanced options however at the next value. KAI’s KF-21 Boramae exited the shortlist as a consequence of its developmental standing. Officers prioritized fielded plane with mature assist methods.
The acquisition will embody weapons packages, simulators, and spare components. It additionally covers coaching applications and logistics assist. Contractual offsets purpose to spice up native upkeep capability. These measures may strengthen Peru’s aerospace business over time.
Peru financed this mission by means of home borrowing and sovereign bond placements. Banco de la Nación will difficulty a 7.58 billion-sol mortgage repayable over 18 to 25 years.
This construction shields annual budgets from sudden protection spikes. Moreover, Peru plans to amass two Boeing 737NG transports beneath a $45 million deal.
Officers should weigh acquisition prices, life-cycle bills, and strategic autonomy. Their remaining selection will reshape Lima’s protection partnerships. Observers count on a choice by late 2025.
