Introduction to the DefenceDetective Newsletter
The DefenceDetective Newsletter provides weekly insights and analysis on the latest developments in military technology, strategy, and foreign policy. This week, we’re focusing on the intriguing history of Venezuela’s Viper fleet, specifically their F-16s.
Venezuela’s F-16 Fleet: A History
Venezuela was the first nation in South America to be approved to buy F-16s, with a Foreign Military Sales agreement signed in May 1982. At that time, Venezuela still enjoyed good relations with the United States. The Peace Delta program provided Venezuela with 16 single-seat F-16As and eight two-seat F-16Bs, all completed to the Block 15 standard.
The F-16/79: A Downgraded Version
Initially, it was expected that Venezuela would receive F-16s powered by the General Electric J79 engine, a downgraded version known as the F-16/79. However, this version never won any orders, and foreign customers were able to buy the standard F-16A/B instead. Venezuela’s F-16s were ultimately equipped with the Pratt & Whitney F100 powerplant.
Venezuela’s F-16s in Action
Delivered between 1983 and 1985, the F-16s were a matter of pride for Venezuela, being arguably the most capable fighters in South America at that time. Venezuelan F-16s flew missions in anger during the military coup launched against President Carlos Andres Perez in November 1992. The failed coup had been launched by military officers loyal to Hugo Chávez and ended up with his imprisonment. During clashes, F-16s flown by pilots loyal to the government were credited with at least three aerial kills.
Current Status of Venezuela’s F-16 Fleet
Today, Venezuela’s F-16 fleet is significantly reduced, with only a few aircraft remaining in operational condition. According to Flight Global, as of late 2024, the active Venezuelan Viper inventory included just three single-seat F-16As and a single two-seat F-16B. The backbone of the Venezuelan fighter force is now provided by 21 Su-30MK2V Flanker multirole fighters.
Conclusion
The appearance of F-16s in recent incidents is a reminder of the type’s survival against the odds in the hands of what’s now a very unlikely operator. With no signs of tensions between Venezuela and the United States subsiding, fighters of the Bolivarian Venezuelan Military Aviation may well continue to be encountered by the U.S. military in the region. The DefenceDetective will continue to provide updates and analysis on this developing story.