Argentina Inaugurates F-16 Maintenance Training Center

The Argentine Air Force has inaugurated the F-16 Aircraft Maintenance Training and Instruction Center at the VI Air Brigade in Tandil to support personnel training and sustainment of the newly introduced fighter fleet.

The VI Air Brigade formally incorporated the center, known as CICMA, as a dedicated facility for training personnel responsible for maintaining the F-16 weapon system. The center is intended to function as a permanent structure to support the Final Operational Capability (FOC) of the aircraft by ensuring long-term operational readiness.

CICMA includes specialized infrastructure, technological tools, and an F-16 BM Block 10 aircraft allocated for technical training. The aircraft, which arrived in Argentina in February 2025, has been used to initiate training activities focused on maintenance procedures, diagnostics, and system support.

With the establishment of CICMA, the VI Air Brigade is positioned as the primary hub for technical training related to the F-16 fleet. The facility is expected to support logistical and technical self-sufficiency in maintaining the aircraft.

Argentina has acquired 24 refurbished F-16 Block 10/15 MLU fighter jets from Denmark for $300 million to upgrade its air force, with the first batch arriving in December 2025. These jets, aimed at restoring supersonic capability, will be delivered through 2028. The U.S. supports the deal, including training and weapons packages.