Industrial relations in defense production between Peru and South Korea are undergoing a process of deepening, consolidation, and sustained expansion. One of the most recent milestones achieved by both nations, aimed at opening doors to new development and manufacturing programs, is Peru’s confirmation of its intent to join the KF-21 Program of Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) through the production of various components for the new fighter jet.
Yesterday, during the official visit to Peru by the President of the Republic of Korea, Yoon Suk Yeol, he and his Peruvian counterpart, Dina Boluarte, presided over the signing of several agreements aimed at boosting cooperation in industrial defense production. Among the most notable was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between KAI and the Maintenance Service of the Peruvian Air Force (SEMAN) to “…provide manufacturing services for KF-21 aircraft components.” The document was signed by KAI President and CEO Kang Goo-young and SEMAN General Manager, FAP Major General Jaime Arturo Rodríguez Espinoza, in the presence of both presidents.
As of today, the Peruvian Air Force has not yet determined its future fighter jet to replace its Mirage 2000 and MiG-29 aircraft. The models under evaluation include the F-16 Block 70, the Rafale, and the Gripen. However, advancing in production agreements with South Korea can be interpreted as a necessary step for the institution to consider South Korean combat aircraft in the medium or long term. Currently, one of the tangible results of this cooperation is the co-production of the KAI KT-1P Torito trainers, which are in service with the Peruvian Air Force and recently participated in the CRUZEX Multinational Exercise.
It is also worth noting a previous agreement reached in July between KAI and SEMAN, under which the latter will produce 250 components for KAI’s FA-50 light fighter. This development is significant because, as confirmed by the Chief of the Peruvian Air Force, General Carlos Enrique Chávez Cateriano, to Zona Militar, the institution is conducting technical studies to explore options for acquiring intermediate jet aircraft to fill the gap left by the decommissioning of the Aermacchi MB-339 without replacement. Considering the capabilities of the South Korean aircraft in its various variants, it could emerge as a strong candidate to fill that role.
Regarding the recent MoU, Peru maintains a significant relationship with South Korea in defense production across various sectors. In the naval sphere, this partnership has yielded results such as the construction of LPD-type ships for the Peruvian Navy in collaboration with South Korean shipyards and companies. Future projects include building a new multipurpose frigate and offshore patrol vessels through the partnership between SIMA and HD Hyundai Heavy Industries (HD HHI). In the land domain, the Peruvian Army has selected the K808 White Tiger as its future 8×8 wheeled armored combat vehicle (VCBR).
For South Korea, Peru represents over 70% of its defense exports to South America, positioning it as a key showcase for other countries in the region. Joint defense projects, such as the potential production of components for the KF-21 Boramae, which will serve in the South Korean Air Force, and potential collaboration in the submarine sector with KSS-III class units, highlight South Korea’s strategic interest in strengthening its global presence in the defense sector and expanding its footprint in South America.
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