United States Approves Potential Sale of F-16 Block 70 Jets to Peru for $3.42 Billion
The U.S. State Department has approved a possible Foreign Military Sale (FMS) to the Government of Peru for the acquisition of F-16 Block 70 fighter jets and associated equipment. The estimated value of the deal is $3.42 billion.
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The U.S. State Department has approved a possible Foreign Military Sale (FMS) to the Government of Peru for the acquisition of F-16 Block 70 fighter jets and associated equipment. The estimated value of the deal is $3.42 billion.
According to a statement from the Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA), the required certification was delivered to the U.S. Congress on September 15, 2025, for review. This approval marks a crucial step in the modernization process for the Peruvian Air Force (FAP).
The Peruvian request includes the purchase of twelve aircraft: ten single-seat F-16C Block 70s and two two-seat F-16D Block 70s. The package also includes fourteen F110-GE-129 engines, advanced avionics systems, and a significant lot of weaponry and support equipment.
The F-16 Block 70, also known as the F-16V "Viper," is the most advanced version of the Lockheed Martin fighter. It is equipped with the AN/APG-83 Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar, which provides detection and tracking capabilities far superior to previous systems, enabling it to effectively counter modern threats.
Details of the Armament and Equipment Package
The potential contract includes not only the aircraft but also a comprehensive combat and support ecosystem. Notable armaments requested include twelve AIM-120C-8 AMRAAM medium-range air-to-air missiles and twelve AIM-9X Block II Sidewinder short-range missiles.
Furthermore, the listed equipment includes:
- AN/APG-83 AESA radars.
- 7000AH Modular Mission Computers.
- AN/ALQ-254 Viper Shield electronic warfare systems.
- AN/AAQ-28 Litening targeting pods.
- JHMCS II helmet-mounted cueing systems.
- MIDS-JTRS tactical radio and information distribution systems.
The package also covers extensive logistical support, personnel training, mission planning equipment, spare parts, technical manuals, and engineering support from both the U.S. government and contractors.
Strategic Impact and Modernization
The DSCA states that this proposed sale will support U.S. foreign policy objectives by enhancing the security of a key partner in South America. For Peru, the acquisition will boost the Air Force's ability to control its sovereign airspace, defend its borders, and conduct precision operations in support of ground forces.
The statement emphasizes that the sale "will not alter the basic military balance in the region." It is also expected that Peru will have no difficulty absorbing this new equipment into its armed forces, thereby strengthening its long-term interoperability with the United States.
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