Defence

Major setback for India’s Tejas and China’s JF-17 in Argentina’s Fighter Jet Deal

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Argentina has finalized an agreement to purchase 24 F-16 jets from Denmark for approximately $300 million, as announced by the government on Tuesday. The deal also encompasses four flight simulators, eight engines, and spare parts for a five-year period.

This marks a significant stride in Argentina’s air force modernization efforts, with the official signing conducted by Argentinian Minister of Defense Luis Petri. The F-16A/B Fighting Falcon Multi-role Lightweight fighters, formerly in service with Denmark, will bolster Argentina’s aerial capabilities.

Denmark’s decision to sell its aging F-16 aircraft comes as part of its plan to transition to F35 aircraft in its fleet. This move received approval from the USA, allowing Denmark to proceed with the sale and provide further upgrades and simulator support. The aircraft were sold at a competitive price compared to other contenders in the tender process, including India and China.

In a collaborative effort with allies, Denmark has generously donated 19 F-16s to support Ukraine’s pursuit of freedom, while simultaneously forging valuable ties with Argentina through the sale of 24 aircraft.

This strategic move by Argentina follows careful consideration of offers for the Indian-made LCA Tejas and the Chinese JF-17. However, the former Danish F-16s emerged as the preferred choice due to their appealing price tag, reportedly less than $24 million per unit. This competitive pricing played a pivotal role in Argentina’s decision-making process.

The signing ceremony not only formalized the deal but also marked the debut of the first Argentinian F-16, symbolizing a significant milestone in the integration of these aircraft into the nation’s air defense framework.

Beyond the fighter jets themselves, Argentina has also secured a comprehensive package including AIM-9X Sidewinder short-range air-to-air missiles and AIM-120D AMRAAM beyond-visual-range air-to-air missiles. These advanced weapon systems will substantially augment Argentina’s offensive and defensive capabilities.

The acquisition of these F-16s heralds a considerable enhancement in Argentina’s airpower. With modern, well-equipped jets and advanced weaponry, the Argentinian Air Force gains a substantial advantage in safeguarding its airspace. This deal underscores Argentina’s dedication to military modernization and the preservation of its defense capabilities.

Defence

Turkey Scraps F-16 Upgrade Deal, Chooses Domestic Tech

In a significant shift in its defense procurement strategy, Türkiye has scaled down its $23 billion F-16 fighter jet package from the United States.

The revised deal, announced on Tuesday, excludes the purchase of 79 modernization kits for its existing fleet of F-16s. Instead, Türkiye will rely on its domestic aerospace industry to upgrade its aircraft, showcasing the growing capabilities of Turkish defense manufacturers.

According to Turkish Defense Minister Yaşar Güler, Türkiye has already made an initial payment of $1.4 billion for the procurement of 40 new F-16 Block 70 Viper jets from Lockheed Martin.

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“We opted out of buying the 79 modernization kits because our Turkish Aerospace Industries (TUSAŞ) are capable of conducting these upgrades independently,” Güler stated. The decision highlights Türkiye’s commitment to enhancing its indigenous defense capabilities while still acquiring new aircraft from the U.S.

The new agreement, which includes the 40 F-16 Block 70 jets and associated ammunition, is expected to cost approximately $7 billion.

The Block 70 variant, also known as the “Viper,” features advanced technologies such as the Northrop Grumman APG-83 Scalable Agile Beam Radar, a modernized cockpit, improved networking capabilities, a new mission computer, enhanced electronic warfare systems, and an upgraded communications suite.

However, it remains unclear which of these upgrades Turkish Aerospace Industries will undertake independently for the existing fleet. Türkiye’s original order for the F-16 jets was placed in October 2021, two years after it was removed from the fifth-generation F-35 Joint Strike Fighter program.

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The exclusion followed Türkiye’s acquisition of the Russian-made S-400 missile defense system, which led to U.S. sanctions and the termination of Türkiye’s participation in the multinational F-35 project.

Despite the setback, Türkiye remains determined to rejoin the F-35 program and acquire 40 new F-35 jets.

“We insist on reclaiming our production share and maintain our request to acquire F-35s,” Güler emphasized, adding that while there are indications of willingness from the U.S. to discuss the matter, no concrete progress has been made.

Meanwhile, Türkiye continues to advance its domestic fighter jet program. The country’s fifth-generation fighter, the Kaan, completed its maiden flight in February 2024, and mass production is expected to begin by 2028.

This ambitious project underscores Türkiye’s broader strategy to reduce reliance on foreign military technology and bolster its domestic defense industry.