Despite strong rumors circulating in Lima—still unconfirmed—that the Lockheed Martin F-16 Fighting Falcon is the favorite to be selected by the central government as the new multirole fighter for the Peruvian Air Force, nothing official has been announced and the Saab JAS 39 Gripen E remains in contention.
In this final stretch of the process, the sudden and intense media presence of Lockheed Martin across several local outlets—highlighting the aircraft’s capabilities—has reignited public interest after a prolonged period of silence. However, the competition now appears to revolve not only around the advanced capabilities the selected weapons system will provide, but also around the geopolitical implications that would stem from such a multi-billion-dollar acquisition.
On one side are supporters of the Fighting Falcon, who emphasize precisely that point: the advantages of strengthening a strategic alliance and opening new national security opportunities through a purchase from the United States. It is true that the F-16 is a solid option. However, beyond its operational qualities, little has been publicly detailed regarding potential industrial offsets, technology transfer, or the development of local industry and job creation that might accompany such a decision.
Conversely, Saab has for months outlined areas of national interest in which it could contribute through the contract to the development of strategic projects in Peru. These include modern technology initiatives, knowledge creation, and employment generation.
For example, in the aerospace sector, Saab has proposed technology transfer benefiting Servicio de Mantenimiento de la Fuerza Aérea del Perú (SEMAN) and other local companies. It has also suggested potential cooperation in education, mining, environmental management, healthcare, and even public security.
One issue that has surfaced in recent weeks concerns delivery timelines, with reports of delays affecting the Swedish manufacturer’s Brazilian customer. However, Saab sources clarify that delivery schedules would be practically similar—approximately 36 months from contract signing—whether for the Gripen E/F or the F-16 Block 70.
Another key factor is price. The state has allocated a budget of US$ 3.5 billion for two dozen aircraft. According to available information, this amount would not pose difficulties for the Swedish proposal, while the U.S. fighter option may prove somewhat more expensive.
What appears certain is that the number of aircraft will remain at 24, that a final decision could be announced in the coming days, and that international relations will play a significant role in the negotiation process.
Meanwhile, the French option represented by the twin-engine Dassault Rafale F4, produced by Dassault Aviation, seems to be gradually drifting away from this dynamic scenario. In Peru, however, nothing can ever be ruled out.
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