Peru’s interim President José María Balcázar has postponed the decision to purchase 24 Lockheed Martin F-16 Block 70 fighters until after July 28, when a new government takes office. This reversal follows his earlier radio remarks claiming the F-16 selection was already set, prompting an immediate government clarification that no final choice has been made.
The delay halts a $3.5 billion deal that doubled Lockheed’s initial offer of 12 jets for $3.42 billion by trimming support packages, munitions, and equipment to fit Peru’s budget—12 aircraft in 2026 for $2 billion and 12 more in 2027 for $1.5 billion. This adjustment made the F-16 appear cost-competitive against Sweden’s pricier Gripen E/F, which had led the tender until a political crisis involving the impeachment of former President Dina Boluarte shifted priorities.
Peru’s Air Force urgently needs replacements for its aging fleet of nine combat-ready MiG-29s and 12 Mirage 2000s. The F-16 Block 70 would provide the most advanced variant in the region, enhancing U.S. strategic alignment, but the postponement introduces procurement risks amid multiple review stages including technical evaluations and comptroller oversight.
Former officials disputed the president’s initial comments, noting no binding agreements exist. The move impacts Lockheed’s regional sales momentum and Peru’s operational readiness timeline.