Argentina Receives US Approval for Acquisition of 24 F-16 Fighters Alongside AMRAAM Missiles
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On October 30, 2024, the United States approved Argentina’s purchase of 24 used F-16A/B Block 10/15 Fighting Falcons, a deal that could be valued at nearly one billion dollars. This acquisition includes not only the aircraft but also a full suite of subsystems and munitions, featuring AIM-120C8 long-range air-to-air AMRAAM missiles, and conventional Mk. 82 bombs, and GBU-12 Paveway II laser-guided bomb conversion kits. This transaction aims to strengthen Argentina’s aerial capabilities, enabling it to address current and future threats through air defense, counter-attack, and close air support missions.
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On March 19, 2019, an F-16C Fighting Falcon from the 85th Test Evaluation Squadron fired an AIM-120 Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missile (AMRAAM) over test ranges near Eglin Air Force Base, Florida. (Picture source: US DoD)
The F-16A/B Block 10/15 Fighting Falcon represents an enhanced version of the versatile fighter jet, designed for both air superiority and ground attack roles. Equipped with the Pratt & Whitney F100-PW-200 turbofan engine, the aircraft reaches speeds of Mach 2.05 at 40,000 feet, with an initial climb rate of 62,000 feet per minute, ensuring swift responsiveness and high maneuverability. The Block 10 models introduced slight internal improvements for increased reliability, while the Block 15, introduced in 1981, brought significant upgrades, including 30% larger horizontal stabilizers for enhanced stability. Additionally, the Block 15 features two new hardpoints under the fuselage for additional payload capacity, expanding mission versatility.
In terms of armament and defense systems, the Block 15 is equipped with an upgraded AN/APG-66 radar with multi-target tracking capabilities, enhancing effectiveness in air defense missions. It includes the secure Have Quick I UHF communication system and is compatible with AIM-7 and AIM-120 AMRAAM air-to-air missiles, as well as AGM-65 and Penguin Mk.3 missiles for precision strikes. The reinforced structure allows a maximum payload capacity of 37,500 lbs (17,010 kg), and an improved air conditioning system enhances pilot comfort during extended missions.
The exact nature of this acquisition remains partially unconfirmed, especially regarding whether it builds on a prior agreement between Argentina and Denmark for 24 used F-16AM/BM Fighting Falcons valued at 300 million dollars. As any F-16 sale or transfer to a third country requires U.S. approval, it is likely that this authorization follows the Danish agreement, raising the total cost to 941 million dollars, including additional support and equipment provided by the United States.
According to the Defence Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA), Argentina could receive a variety of support equipment for these F-16s, including 36 AIM-120C8 AMRAAM missiles for beyond-visual-range combat, 500-pound Mk. 82 bombs, and 50 GBU-12 Paveway II laser-guided bomb kits. The package also includes cryptographic devices, advanced communication systems such as AN/ARC-238 radios, mission planning systems, and navigation and electronic warfare systems.
The DSCA specified that this sale aligns with U.S. foreign policy and national security objectives by strengthening a non-NATO ally in South America. The transaction would enhance Argentina’s operational effectiveness and responsiveness, allowing integration of these new systems into its armed forces without adversely affecting U.S. defense readiness.
The main contract is expected to be executed by Lockheed Martin, based in Fort Worth, Texas, with no additional economic offset requirements. No further U.S. personnel would be required in Argentina for the implementation of this sale.
The DSCA also noted that this potential sale should not affect the regional military balance. The comprehensive support and logistical services package will enable Argentina to enhance its capabilities, providing full technical and logistical assistance, spare parts, and training systems to gradually integrate this technology into its armed forces.
This transaction still requires final approval from the U.S. Congress, but the support provided by this military sale could play a pivotal role in modernizing Argentina’s air defense capabilities.
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On October 30, 2024, the United States approved Argentina’s purchase of 24 used F-16A/B Block 10/15 Fighting Falcons, a deal that could be valued at nearly one billion dollars. This acquisition includes not only the aircraft but also a full suite of subsystems and munitions, featuring AIM-120C8 long-range air-to-air AMRAAM missiles, and conventional Mk. 82 bombs, and GBU-12 Paveway II laser-guided bomb conversion kits. This transaction aims to strengthen Argentina’s aerial capabilities, enabling it to address current and future threats through air defense, counter-attack, and close air support missions.
On March 19, 2019, an F-16C Fighting Falcon from the 85th Test Evaluation Squadron fired an AIM-120 Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missile (AMRAAM) over test ranges near Eglin Air Force Base, Florida. (Picture source: US DoD)
The F-16A/B Block 10/15 Fighting Falcon represents an enhanced version of the versatile fighter jet, designed for both air superiority and ground attack roles. Equipped with the Pratt & Whitney F100-PW-200 turbofan engine, the aircraft reaches speeds of Mach 2.05 at 40,000 feet, with an initial climb rate of 62,000 feet per minute, ensuring swift responsiveness and high maneuverability. The Block 10 models introduced slight internal improvements for increased reliability, while the Block 15, introduced in 1981, brought significant upgrades, including 30% larger horizontal stabilizers for enhanced stability. Additionally, the Block 15 features two new hardpoints under the fuselage for additional payload capacity, expanding mission versatility.
In terms of armament and defense systems, the Block 15 is equipped with an upgraded AN/APG-66 radar with multi-target tracking capabilities, enhancing effectiveness in air defense missions. It includes the secure Have Quick I UHF communication system and is compatible with AIM-7 and AIM-120 AMRAAM air-to-air missiles, as well as AGM-65 and Penguin Mk.3 missiles for precision strikes. The reinforced structure allows a maximum payload capacity of 37,500 lbs (17,010 kg), and an improved air conditioning system enhances pilot comfort during extended missions.
The exact nature of this acquisition remains partially unconfirmed, especially regarding whether it builds on a prior agreement between Argentina and Denmark for 24 used F-16AM/BM Fighting Falcons valued at 300 million dollars. As any F-16 sale or transfer to a third country requires U.S. approval, it is likely that this authorization follows the Danish agreement, raising the total cost to 941 million dollars, including additional support and equipment provided by the United States.
According to the Defence Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA), Argentina could receive a variety of support equipment for these F-16s, including 36 AIM-120C8 AMRAAM missiles for beyond-visual-range combat, 500-pound Mk. 82 bombs, and 50 GBU-12 Paveway II laser-guided bomb kits. The package also includes cryptographic devices, advanced communication systems such as AN/ARC-238 radios, mission planning systems, and navigation and electronic warfare systems.
The DSCA specified that this sale aligns with U.S. foreign policy and national security objectives by strengthening a non-NATO ally in South America. The transaction would enhance Argentina’s operational effectiveness and responsiveness, allowing integration of these new systems into its armed forces without adversely affecting U.S. defense readiness.
The main contract is expected to be executed by Lockheed Martin, based in Fort Worth, Texas, with no additional economic offset requirements. No further U.S. personnel would be required in Argentina for the implementation of this sale.
The DSCA also noted that this potential sale should not affect the regional military balance. The comprehensive support and logistical services package will enable Argentina to enhance its capabilities, providing full technical and logistical assistance, spare parts, and training systems to gradually integrate this technology into its armed forces.
This transaction still requires final approval from the U.S. Congress, but the support provided by this military sale could play a pivotal role in modernizing Argentina’s air defense capabilities.
