Overview

• Defense Minister Walter Astudillo said the subsonic fleet is intended to strengthen operations against narcotrafficking and illegal mining and improve control over remote border areas.
• At least two aircraft are expected to be in-country before July 28, 2026, with additional deliveries phased over a longer horizon the minister described as spanning up to two decades.
• The U.S. Defense Security Cooperation Agency notified Congress of a potential sale of 12 F-16 Block 70s, underscoring that the notice is a procedural step and not a finalized contract.
• The proposed F-16 package includes 10 F-16C and 2 F-16D Block 70 aircraft, 14 F110-GE-129 engines, AN/APG-83 AESA radars, AIM-120 and AIM-9X missiles, and extensive training and support equipment.
• The October fighter competition will weigh Rafale, Gripen E/F, and F-16 Block 70 options, with local reporting citing differing acquisition and operating costs, while Peru also plans more helicopters, runway upgrades, and pilot projects in Caballococha and Purús to support operations.