Defense Minister Walter Enrique Astudillo Chávez confirmed that Peru will purchase 24 fighter jets for the Peruvian Air Force (FAP) to fulfill the constitutional role of defending national sovereignty and protecting the Peruvian population against threats to the country’s security.
“This government’s decision is extremely important and historic, and all good citizens should be pleased, as we are finally prioritizing investments made with a long-term state vision,” he said in a press conference alongside the President of the Council of Ministers (Prime Minister).
The announcement confirms the realization of this project, whose specific goal is to restore the country’s air defense and deterrence capabilities through the re-equipment of the Peruvian Air Force (FAP). As previously noted by the FAP General Commander, Luis Chávez Cateriano, the selection will be made between the Lockheed Martin F-16V Block 70, the Saab JAS 39 Gripen, and the Dassault Rafale F4, all internationally renowned suppliers.
Regarding financing, the Peruvian government is negotiating a loan of 7.58 billion soles from the National Bank under the Debt Law for Fiscal Year 2025 to drive the technological renewal of the FAP. The loan, which at the current exchange rate equals just over 2 billion dollars, will allow the execution of Phase I of the FAP’s Acquisition Investment Project, which includes an initial batch of 12 out of the 24 planned fighter-bombers.
This purchase must include technology transfer to enhance the capabilities of the aeronautical institution, a key aspect for the FAP following its successful co-production experiences between Korean Aerospace Industries (KAI) and SEMAN Peru for the assembly of the KT1-P “Torito” training aircraft.
Another related project aims to strengthen tactical and strategic transport capabilities, with plans to purchase two Leonardo Spartan C-27J multi-mission tactical transports and two Boeing 737 cargo and passenger planes, one of which is likely intended for presidential use.
Cover photos used for illustrative purposes.
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