Peru Signs $462 Million F-16 Deal, Then Suspends Purchase
Peru has committed $462 million for 12 F-16 Block 70 jets from Lockheed Martin but suspended the deal following political changes. The acquisition aims to replace outdated MiG-29s and Mirage 2000s, with first deliveries anticipated between 2029 and 2030.
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Peru agreed to purchase 12 F-16 Block 70 jets, comprising ten single-seat F-16C and two twin-seat F-16D models, with an initial payment of $462 million made in April 2026. Despite this financial commitment, the deal was suspended by interim President José María Balcázar, who cited concerns over his caretaker government's authority to finalize such a significant expenditure.
The total cost of the jets is estimated at $1.54 billion, with associated expenses bringing the first phase to nearly $2 billion, part of a larger $3.42 billion package approved by the US government. The suspension of the deal has led to the resignation of key ministers supporting the purchase. The outcome will impact Peru's defense strategy and its ties with the US.
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