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 The potential deals come as the South American country seeks to replace its outdated aircraft, navigating obstacles such as arms embargoes, international partnerships and geopolitical considerations.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
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Air Warfare
-
![India fast-tracks helicopter procurement with dual RFIs for 276 platforms]()
India fast-tracks helicopter procurement with dual RFIs for 276 platforms
India has issued urgent RFIs for more than 270 reconnaissance, surveillance and utility helicopters across its services, signalling a systemic overhaul of rotary-wing capabilities with a renewed emphasis on indigenous production and technology transfer.
-
![US combat drone plan rushes forward with first flight and selection in FY2026]()
US combat drone plan rushes forward with first flight and selection in FY2026
The US Department of Defence (DoD) previously selected Anduril Industries and General Atomics to develop production-representative prototypes under the Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) programme. A competitive Increment 1 production decision is expected in FY2026.
-
![DSEI 2025: Saab unveils new CUAS missile solution to defeat UAS swarms]()
DSEI 2025: Saab unveils new CUAS missile solution to defeat UAS swarms
The Nimbrix missile has been developed and tested over the last year and is Saab’s latest cost-effective answer to help armed forces counteract escalating numbers of uncrewed aerial threats on the battlefield.
-
![Will drone motherships form part of tomorrow’s warfare?]()
Will drone motherships form part of tomorrow’s warfare?
While motherships offer multiple operational advantages, the changes in the character of warfare may bring new tactics to the battlefield, reducing their role.
