The US State Department has approved the sale of a state-of-the-art weapons package for Argentina's F-16 aircraft, worth $941 million.
Lockheed Martin will be the primary supplier of the equipment, which includes missiles, guided bombs and support systems to enhance defense and air combat operations.
The weapons package includes 36 AIM-120 C-8 missiles and 102 MK-82 bombs, as well as technology to ensure secure communications and the Link 16 data link.
The sale also includes training and logistical support for the Argentine Armed Forces, in order to ensure the effective integration of the new systems.
The contract will not affect the United States' defense readiness and will reinforce the security of Argentina, considered a strategic ally in South America.
Argentina has decided to strengthen its air defense capabilities by purchasing advanced weapons and systems for its F-16 aircraft. In order to improve its deterrence and defense capabilities, the government is seeking to modernize its equipment and ensure an effective response to potential threats.
The agreement approved by the US State Department covers a wide range of equipment and services for twenty-four F-16 Block 10/15 aircraft. This includes AIM-120 C-8 air-to-air missiles, MK-82 500-pound bombs, and other equipment such as AN/ARC-238 tactical radios and KY-58M and KIV-78 cryptographic devices. These systems are intended to provide Argentina with enhanced capabilities for air defense and close air support operations.
Lockheed Martin, one of the leading defense companies in the United States, will be the main supplier of the equipment and services necessary for the integration of weapons and technology into the Argentine F-16s. The company will be responsible for supplying both the weapons and the support systems, which will strengthen its presence in Latin America as a strategic partner of the United States.
The State Department stressed that this transaction supports the United States' foreign policy and security objectives, promoting stability and security in South America. In addition, they consider that the agreement with Argentina will not affect their own defense preparation or unbalance the military situation in the region, highlighting the strengthening of the bilateral relationship.
In addition to the military equipment, the package includes the training necessary for Argentine Air Force personnel to operate these systems effectively. Maintenance and logistical support programs are also included, which will allow Argentine forces to integrate and use the new weapons without the need for additional U.S. personnel in Argentina. As the State Department stated: “Argentina will have no difficulty integrating this equipment into its Armed Forces.”
The estimated price of the package is $941 million, although this could vary depending on Argentina's specific requirements. "The actual value will depend on final requirements," the State Department said, reflecting possible flexibility in the final amount.
The agreement is now on track for implementation following notification by the US Congress approving such international arms sales. Schedules for the delivery of equipment and the start of training and logistical support programmes are expected to be established in the coming months.
Argentina will need to move forward with planning to receive and adapt these systems in its defense forces. This process involves coordinating logistics, maintenance and operations to ensure full integration of the new systems into its F-16s. Lockheed Martin could also expand its role in the region, increasing its collaboration with other Latin American countries interested in strengthening their air defense capabilities.
In strategic terms, the transaction marks a strengthening of the relationship between the United States and Argentina, with the expectation that defense cooperation will continue to be consolidated and that this alliance will contribute to the stability and security of the region.
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