Breaking News
Peru Confirms Purchase of 24 Fighter Jets for National Defense: Rafale F4, Saab Gripen, and F-16V Block 70 in Contention.
Defense Minister Walter Enrique Astudillo Chávez confirmed that Peru will proceed with the purchase of 24 fighter jets for the Peruvian Air Force (FAP) to fulfill its constitutional role of defending national sovereignty and protecting the Peruvian population from security threats. The selection will be made between the Lockheed Martin F-16V Block 70, the Saab JAS 39 Gripen, and the Dassault Rafale F4, all offered by internationally renowned suppliers.
The Rafale F4 is an upgraded version of the Dassault Rafale, a multirole fighter developed by France and first introduced in 2001 (Picture source: Dassault)
The F-16V Block 70 is an advanced version of the F-16 Fighting Falcon, introduced in 2012 with production beginning in 2017. Equipped with advanced avionics, the new APG-83 AESA radar, and improved mission systems, it enhances the aircraft’s survivability and operational capabilities.
The F-16V is designed for multirole missions, including air-to-air combat and ground attacks, with a maximum speed of Mach 2.0. Several countries, including Bahrain and Slovakia, have ordered this variant, with initial deliveries starting in 2021. Its advanced systems provide enhanced situational awareness and interoperability with modern air forces.
The JAS 39 Gripen, introduced in 1997, is a multirole fighter developed by Swedish manufacturer Saab. The latest variant, the Gripen E/F (first flight in 2017), features advanced radar (AESA), electronic warfare systems, and an increased weapons payload.
Known for its agility, low operational costs, and modularity, the Gripen is designed for air superiority, ground attacks, and reconnaissance missions. The Gripen is in service in several countries, including Sweden, Brazil, and South Africa. It has a top speed of Mach 2.0 and is equipped with a range of air-to-air, air-to-ground, and precision-guided weapons.
The Rafale F4 is an upgraded version of the Dassault Rafale, a multirole fighter developed by France and first introduced in 2001. The F4 variant, announced in 2019 with deliveries expected in 2025, features improved connectivity, optimized radar systems, and new weapons integration, making it a highly capable platform for air dominance, ground support, and reconnaissance.
It can reach speeds of Mach 1.8 and is equipped with a 30mm cannon, a wide array of missiles, and precision-guided munitions. France, Egypt, India, and Qatar currently operate the Rafale, with the F4 version being integrated into these fleets.
The latest variant, the Gripen E/F (first flight in 2017), features advanced radar (AESA), electronic warfare systems, and an increased weapons payload (Picture source: Saab)
During a press conference alongside the President of the Council of Ministers, the minister emphasized the historic importance of this decision. He noted that it marks a significant step for the country, initiating long-term investment designed to meet the state's strategic needs. This purchase reflects the goal of re-equipping the Peruvian Air Force and restoring its air defense and deterrence capabilities, as clearly outlined by FAP General Commander Luis Chávez Cateriano.
The FAP operates a diverse fleet, including fighters, transport aircraft, helicopters, and reconnaissance planes. Traditionally equipped with Soviet-origin aircraft, the FAP’s fleet includes MiG-29 and Su-25 fighters, used for air defense and ground attack missions.
Financially, the Peruvian government is negotiating a loan of 7.58 billion soles from the National Bank under the 2025 Fiscal Year Debt Law. This loan, equivalent to over 2 billion US dollars at the current exchange rate, will fund the first phase of the FAP's acquisition project. This phase will include an initial batch of 12 fighter-bombers out of the 24 planned.
The F-16V Block 70 is an advanced version of the F-16 Fighting Falcon, introduced in 2012 with production beginning in 2017 (Picture source: Lockheed Martin)
The acquisition must include a technology transfer component, a key element for the FAP, which aims to enhance its technical and industrial capabilities in the aeronautical sector. This follows the success of co-production projects between Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) and SEMAN Peru for the assembly of KT1-P "Torito" training aircraft.
Additionally, another related project seeks to strengthen the FAP's tactical and strategic transport capabilities. Peru plans to acquire two Leonardo Spartan C-27J multi-mission tactical transport aircraft and two Boeing 737 planes configured for cargo and passenger transport. One of these Boeing aircraft may be intended for presidential use.
This acquisition of fighter jets and transport aircraft is part of a broader strategy aimed at modernizing Peru’s military capabilities. By incorporating cutting-edge technologies and strengthening its industrial infrastructure, Peru seeks to secure its borders and respond more effectively to regional and international security challenges.