Peru’s air force signed a $2 billion contract for twelve F‑16 fighters this week, sending an initial payment to Lockheed Martin despite interim President José María Balcázar’s public objections. The deal was sealed by senior military officials before Balcázar learned of it, prompting the resignations of former foreign minister Hugo de Zela and defence minister Carlos Díaz.

The purchase ends a long‑standing effort to replace Peru’s aging French and Russian fleet, but it also ties the country to a U.S. combat system for decades. Washington’s ambassador, Bernie Navarro, warned that America would use “every available tool” to secure the agreement, a comment that opponents called extortion. Lawmakers have called for Balcázar’s impeachment, while a right‑wing candidate backing the jets faces a leftist rival questioning the billions‑dollar outlay.

With the first payment already made, reversing course would be costly for the next administration. The controversy surfaces as Peru balances U.S. pressure against growing Chinese influence, notably a disputed Chinese‑run Pacific port. The episode underscores how defense procurement can become a flashpoint for sovereignty and electoral politics in the region.