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Peru will purchase 12 new F-16 Block 70 aircraft to modernize its fighter fleet and strengthen national defense capabilities, Lockheed Martin said.
The company described the F-16 as a highly capable, interoperable multirole fighter intended to enhance air sovereignty, support regional security and enable long-term operational readiness. It characterized the Block 70 as the most advanced F-16 in production, citing advanced technology, radar and weapons systems, and claiming the longest service life, lowest lifecycle cost and a strong global support base among fighters currently being built.
“Peru’s choice of the F-16 underscores the aircraft’s unmatched operational performance and combat record, as well as its ability to meet the most pressing defense requirements,” said Mike Shoemaker, Vice President of Integrated Fighter Group at Lockheed Martin. “We are proud that the most advanced F-16 ever produced will help protect Peru’s national sovereignty while strengthening the enduring partnership between our nations.”
Lockheed Martin said the acquisition marks a major step in the Peruvian Air Force’s fighter fleet transformation, reinforces a longstanding strategic partnership with the United States, and opens opportunities for industrial collaboration.
“Cooperation between U.S. and allied defense industrial bases has always been a shared source of security and economic benefit,” added Shoemaker. “These ties will continue to strengthen with Peru through the F-16 Block 70 program, fostering economic growth for all partners.”
With the selection, Peru joins 29 other nations and a global fleet of more than 2,800 F-16s operating today. The aircraft will be produced at Lockheed Martin’s facility in Greenville, South Carolina.
