Story perspectives

Peru Ministers Resign as US Threatens Retaliation Over F-16 Delay

4/23/2026

Summary

Story summary

U.S. Ambassador Bernie Navarro warned Peru that any bad-faith delay of the $3.5 billion F-16 deal would trigger retaliation.
Defence Minister Carlos Díaz and Foreign Minister Hugo de Zela resigned after President José María Balcázar said the purchase would be deferred.
The 24-jet F-16 contract, approved in 2024, planned $2 billion borrowing in 2025 and $1.5 billion in 2026.
Swedish Saab and French Dassault also offered aircraft, prompting critics to question the deal’s exclusivity.

History

Historical Context

In 2024, the U.S. approved a $3.5 billion F-16 deal with Peru, reflecting its ongoing military partnerships in Latin America. This agreement follows a trend of significant U.S. military financing, as seen in Argentina's recent $40 million F-16 purchase. Internal political tensions in Peru, highlighted by the resignations of key ministers, complicate defense spending and underscore the challenges of international arms deals.

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Story summary

U.S. Ambassador Bernie Navarro warned Peru that any bad-faith delay of the $3.5 billion F-16 deal would trigger retaliation.
Defence Minister Carlos Díaz and Foreign Minister Hugo de Zela resigned after President José María Balcázar said the purchase would be deferred.
The 24-jet F-16 contract, approved in 2024, planned $2 billion borrowing in 2025 and $1.5 billion in 2026.
Swedish Saab and French Dassault also offered aircraft, prompting critics to question the deal’s exclusivity.

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