Following recent announcements and official statements, the selection process for the future multirole fighter of the Peruvian Air Force—intended to replace the aging Mirage 2000P/DP fleet—appears to be entering its final stage. This is evident in the various efforts made by the companies whose proposals are on the Peruvian Air Force’s shortlist, which includes Saab’s JAS-39 Gripen E/F, Lockheed Martin’s F-16 Block 70, and Dassault Aviation’s Rafale.
This re-equipment program is particularly significant, aligning with broader modernization efforts across the region’s combat aviation fleets. According to information provided by the Peruvian Air Force, as well as successive budget submissions and approved plans, the Peruvian government has estimated an investment of up to US$3.5 billion for the purchase of 24 multirole fighter jets.
Alongside the promotional efforts led by Sweden and Saab—who showcased their Gripen E/F at various international defense expos in recent weeks, most notably at SITDEF in Lima at the end of April—Lockheed Martin has also ramped up its campaign, presenting the F-16 Block 70 as the most solid option for renewing the Peruvian Air Force’s combat fleet.
Recently, and in an official statement, the U.S. company declared: “The F-16 Block 70 program represents more than just a strategic partnership: it is a driver of economic growth and the development of advanced defense capabilities in Peru.”
They added: “We look forward to continuing to build a future of opportunity, innovation, and development together.”
Marketed as the F-16V, the Block 70/72 is the latest version of Lockheed Martin’s renowned F-16 fighter jet, available both as new production units and through upgrade packages for existing fleets.
As of today, many air forces in Europe—as well as in other parts of the world—are adopting the Block 70/72 to modernize their combat fleets. These include the air forces of Taiwan, Bulgaria, Slovakia, and Bahrain, while others, such as Greece, have opted to upgrade their existing Vipers.
In Peru’s case, the South American country could become a new F-16 operator, joining regional users like Venezuela and Chile, which have operated the platform for decades, and more recently Argentina, which is in the process of receiving 24 F-16AM/BM MLU jets acquired from Denmark.
Additionally, and hypothetically, should the Peruvian Air Force select Lockheed Martin’s proposal, the country would become the operator of the most modern and capable F-16 variant in the region. This would bring key enhancements, including the APG-83 AESA radar, integration of the most advanced targeting pods, and structural upgrades to the airframe that provide a service life of up to 12,000 flight hours—or potentially more.
Images used for illustrative purposes only.
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