US seeks to approve F-16 sale to Argentina to trump Chinese JF-17 offer
The Tejas include British-manufactured components, and thus the jet’s export is subject to UK approval. (Photo: Pakistan Air Force)
Argentina is evaluating choices including second-hand F-16 fighters from Denmark and Chengdu JF-17 Thunder Block III fighters offered by China. The potential deals come as the South American country seeks to replace its outdated aircraft, navigating obstacles such as arms embargoes, international partnerships and geopolitical considerations.
Argentina has inched closer to getting its hands on modern combat aircraft following several attempts, after facing financial problems and sanctions.
US President Joe Biden’s administration has recently notified Congress to approve the sale of 38 former Danish F-16 fighter jets and four P-3 Orion maritime patrol aircraft from Norway.
The sales are valued at about $338 million and $108 million for the F-16s and P-3s, respectively.
The Royal Danish Air Force’s F-16s are from two batches, with up to six Block 10s and up to 32 Block 15 variants.
Although an older version of the fourth-generation fighter, the F-16s
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