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Peru Names Mario Contreras to Lead Air Force, Retires Carlos Chávez

The new chief inherits an immediate decision on the stalled $3.5 billion fighter modernization.

Overview

  • The Executive published Supreme Resolution No. 078-2025-DE to cease Carlos Chávez as FAP commander and, by law, move him to retirement after 40 years of service.
  • Supreme Resolution No. 079-2025-DE names Teniente General Mario Raúl Contreras León Carty as the new commander effective November 6, 2025.
  • Both acts are signed by President José Jerí and Defense Minister César Francisco Díaz Peche.
  • Contreras was selected under seniority rules from the three most senior tenientes generales and will hold the designation General del Aire while in office.
  • The $3.5 billion fighter modernization remains unresolved, with ex–deputy minister César Torres calling for an urgent 20% transfer to secure the contract, as prosecutors continue investigating the death of pilot Ashley Vargas.