U.S. Approves 12 F-16 Jets Sale to Peru worth $3.42B

The U.S. State Department has greenlit a possible Foreign Military Sale to Peru of F-16 fighter jets and related equipment, valued at $3.42 billion.

The Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) delivered the required certification to notify Congress of the potential sale on September 15.

Peru has requested 12 F-16 Block 70 aircraft, including 10 F-16C and 2 F-16D models. The deal also includes 14 F110-GE-129 engines, AN/APG-83 AESA radars, modular mission computers, and navigation systems.

Weaponry in the proposed package covers 12 AIM-120C-8 AMRAAMs, 12 AIM-9X Block II Sidewinder missiles, missile launchers, and the M61A1 Vulcan cannon for each aircraft. The request also includes electronic warfare systems, infrared search and track sensors, Litening targeting pods, helmet-mounted displays, secure communication systems, night vision devices, ammunition, and countermeasures.

The proposed sale would support Peru’s ability to control its airspace, secure its borders, and conduct counter-narcotics and counterterrorism missions, the DSCA said in an official statement.

If finalized, the primary contractors would be Lockheed Martin, General Electric Aerospace and RTX Corporation.

Peru’s air force currently operates older Mirage 2000 and MiG-29 fighters.