Introduction to the TWZ Newsletter
The TWZ Newsletter provides weekly insights and analysis on the latest developments in military technology, strategy, and foreign policy. This week, we’re focusing on Peru’s approval to buy 12 F-16C/D Block 70 jets, which would make it the fourth South American operator of the Lockheed Martin fighter.
Peru’s F-16 Acquisition
The U.S. State Department has approved a possible Foreign Military Sale to Peru of 10 single-seat F-16C and two F-16D Block 70 aircraft, valued at around $3.42 billion. The deal includes 12 AIM-120C-8 Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missiles (AMRAAM) and 12 AIM-9X Block II Sidewinder missiles. This acquisition would enhance the Peruvian Air Force’s ability to control its sovereign airspace, defend its territorial borders, and conduct precision air-to-ground attack operations.
Peruvian Air Force’s Current Fleet
The Peruvian Air Force currently operates a mix of increasingly aging tactical jets, including MiG-29 Fulcrums, Su-25 Frogfoots, Mirage 2000s, and Cessna A-37s. The Russian-made equipment, acquired in the mid-1990s, has undergone limited upgrades and is increasingly hard to keep serviceable. The Peruvian Air Force is looking to overhaul its inventory with 24 new fighters.
Competing Aircraft
Peru has also considered the Dassault Aviation Rafale F4 and the Saab Gripen E/F as potential candidates to replace its current fleet. However, with the U.S. State Department’s approval of the F-16 sale, it seems that the Lockheed Martin fighter is the front-runner.
Impact on Regional Dynamics
The potential sale of F-16s to Peru would be a significant development in the region, as it would mark a shift away from Russian and European combat aircraft. This move would also strengthen Peru’s military partnership with the United States.
Russian Arms Exports
Russia’s arms exports have fallen significantly since the invasion of Ukraine in 2022. According to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), Russian arms exports fell by half between 2019 and 2023. France has now overtaken Russia as the world’s second-biggest arms exporter.
Conclusion
The potential sale of F-16s to Peru would be a significant development in the region, marking a shift towards Western combat aircraft. With the Peruvian Air Force’s current fleet aging and increasingly hard to maintain, the acquisition of new fighters is crucial. The F-16’s global success and increasing footprint in South America make it a likely candidate for Peru’s air force overhaul.