LIMA — Peru has moved forward with the acquisition of 12 advanced F-16 Block 70 multirole fighters from Lockheed Martin, a decision that marks a significant modernization for the Fuerza Aérea del Perú but has also ignited a political firestorm within the interim government.
Lockheed Martin announced the selection on April 23, 2026, highlighting the aircraft's advanced capabilities, long service life and combat-proven record. The deal culminates a competition launched in 2024 that pitted the F-16 Block 70 against Sweden's Gripen E and France's Rafale to replace Peru's aging fleet of MiG-29s and Mirage 2000s.
The process has been anything but smooth. A technical signing was scheduled for April 17 but was abruptly postponed by interim President Jose Balcazar, who cited concerns about binding the incoming administration — due to take office later in 2026 — to such a substantial defense commitment. A technical agreement was ultimately executed on April 20 with approval from senior Peruvian officials.
The controversy led directly to the resignations of Defense Minister Carlos Diaz and Foreign Minister Hugo de Zela. In his letter, Diaz stated he had a fundamental disagreement with a strategic national security decision taken under Balcazar's leadership.
U.S. officials expressed frustration at the mixed signals. Ambassador Bernie Navarro detailed how the United States had followed every procedural step requested by Peru, including offering a highly customized package with two unique weapons systems never previously integrated onto an F-16 platform. The embassy warned that delays carry real consequences, as supplier contracts have finite pricing windows and global demand for the aircraft remains strong.
Despite the turmoil, Peru's Ministry of Economy and Finance confirmed the transfer of $462 million as the first installment. Navarro stated that initial aircraft are expected to arrive between 2029 and 2030. The U.S. Defense Security Cooperation Agency had previously notified Congress of a potential sale valued at up to $3.42 billion.
The configuration includes 10 single-seat F-16Cs and two twin-seat F-16Ds powered by F110-GE-129 engines, along with AIM-120C-8 AMRAAM and AIM-9X Sidewinder missiles, Viper Shield electronic warfare systems, Litening targeting pods and Joint Helmet Mounted Cueing Systems. An infrared search and track capability is also part of the package.
Lockheed Martin Vice President Mike Shoemaker praised Peru's choice, noting the F-16's ability to meet the country's most urgent defense needs while deepening bilateral ties. The aircraft will be assembled at Lockheed's Greenville, South Carolina facility. Peru will become one of 30 nations operating the F-16, part of a global fleet exceeding 2,800 aircraft.
Reports indicate the initial 12 jets represent only the first phase, with ambitions to acquire up to 24 fighters for full fleet replacement. It remains unclear whether negotiations for additional aircraft will proceed under the current administration or be deferred.
The episode underscores the complex interplay between defense procurement, political transitions and international partnerships in Latin America. While the payment and technical signing appear to have locked in the initial commitment, questions linger about long-term execution amid Peru's shifting domestic politics.
U.S. officials have emphasized the strategic value of the partnership, which extends beyond the aircraft to include training, maintenance expertise and broader interoperability. For Peru, the F-16 Block 70 represents a leap in capability for its air force as it seeks to maintain sovereignty in a dynamic regional security environment.