According to Pucara Defense on July 1, 2024, the Peruvian government is negotiating with South Korea and Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) to acquire between 20 and 24 FA-50 light combat aircraft for approximately $780 million. In addition to this significant investment, Peru is also considering joining the KF-21 fifth-generation fighter program, which could further modernize its air force and expand its aerospace capabilities.
As reported by Santiago Rivas, the Peruvian government is in discussions with South Korea and Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) to purchase between 20 and 24 KAI FA-50 light combat aircraft. A letter of intent is expected in the coming weeks, with a contract likely to be finalized before the end of the year, amounting to approximately $780 million. Sources from both Peru and Korea have indicated that this initiative aims to replicate the KT-1 trainers’ project, where 20 units were sold to the Peruvian Air Force (FAP), with 16 assembled locally by the FAP’s Maintenance Service (SEMAN) at the Las Palmas Air Base.
For Peru, the plan involves the local assembly of most of the FA-50s and the production of some components within the country. These aircraft are intended to replace the Cessna A-37B Dragonfly, which was used until 2023 by Air Group No. 7 in Piura, and the Aermacchi MB-339, operated by Air Squadron No. 513 of Air Group No. 51 in Pisco. Currently, Air Group No. 7 operates the KT-1.
The South Korean government has also suggested that Peru join the KF-21 fifth-generation fighter program, as Indonesia is reducing its involvement, impacting the program financially. Peru is looking for a fighter aircraft to replace its out-of-service MiG-29s and the Mirage 2000Ps, which have been in service for nearly 40 years. While Peru is considering acquiring 24 F-16s, participation in the KF-21 program, despite requiring a larger investment, offers potential technological advancements and expansion of capabilities in the aerospace industry. For South Korea, this could improve the KF-21’s financial viability and its competitiveness in the global market following the reduction of the initial production batch for South Korea from 40 to 20 units.