Argentina to Receive First Six F-16s by End 2025

Argentina will receive its first six combat-worthy F-16 fighter jets by this year's end while the remaining 18 out of 24 contracted with Denmark will arrive over the next 3 years.

Speaking at a ceremony to receive a non-combat F-16 meant for pilot and maintenance training, Defense minister Luis Petri said that the F-16B MLU Block 10, assembled at the VI Air Brigade in Tandil and designated "number 25", is the first aircraft acquired within the contract to purchase 24 F-16A/B MLUs from Denmark. 

Although it is part of the agreement, this aircraft is not part of the group of 24 operational units, but is intended exclusively for training pilots and ground technicians.

The first six operational aircraft will arrive in the country at the end of 2025 and will be assigned to the Río Cuarto Material Area, while the works on the runway and hangars of the VI Air Brigade of Tandil are completed. The other 18 aircraft will be added in the next three years.

Argentina had sealed a deal with Denmark in early 2024 to purchase two dozen second-hand Danish F-16 Fighting Falcons for about $300 million.

The F-16 deal covers single-seat and two-seat aircraft, advanced weapons, spare parts, engines, and four flight simulators. The agreement also guarantees spare parts for five years and comprehensive training for pilots and technicians.

The F-16 will replace Argentina’s aging Mirage aircraft, which were retired after over four decades of service.