In 2023, the Argentine Minister of Defense, Luis Alfonso Petro, signed a letter of intent to purchase 24 Danish F-16 fighters. The sale of Danish jets to Argentina had been in the works for some time and was seen as a major breakthrough in the country’s efforts to modernize its military.
The United States government played a key role in the negotiations, providing support and collaboration that allowed the sale of US-produced aircraft. This was seen as a reaffirmation of the close defense ties between the two countries.
Denmark also donated 19 F-16 fighters to Ukraine as part of their fleet replacement process. The Danish Defense Minister, Troels Lund Poulsen, emphasized the importance of this deal for both countries.
Buenos Aires had not had fighter planes since retiring the last French Mirage in 2015. If the purchase worth $664 million is completed, Argentina will reinforce its combat fleet with these new Danish F-16 fighters. The acquisition will significantly enhance Argentina’s military capabilities and bring it up to par with other countries in the region.
