Peru in the Final Stages: Considers Gripen Purchase after Stockholm Visit

Peru Seeks to Renew Its Air Force

The Peruvian delegation, led by Defense Minister Walter Astudillo, has just concluded a visit to Stockholm. Here, the Saab Gripen E was presented as a potential replacement for the country’s aging Mirage 2000 fleet, which has been flying since the 1980s. At the same time, Russian Su-25s from the 1990s are also due for replacement.

According to the Commander of the Peruvian Air Force, General Enrique Chavez Cateriano, the goal is clear: a fleet of 24 modern multirole jets to safeguard the nation’s airspace for the next 30–40 years.

Sweden Opens the Door to a Larger Deal

Swedish Defense Minister Pål Jonson described the talks as “productive” and emphasized that Sweden is ready to meet Lima’s requirements.

“It’s up to the Peruvians to decide which system best matches their needs. But Saab has a very attractive offer,” Jonson said after the meeting at Karlberg Palace.

Originally, the Swedish Parliament had given a mandate for 12 Gripen aircraft, but Jonson now confirms that an agreement for up to 24 jets is possible.

Competition from France and the USA

The decision facing Peru is not an easy one. The delegation will travel next to Paris to evaluate the Dassault Rafale F4, and has previously visited Lockheed Martin in the US to discuss the F-16.

Critics have pointed out that the Gripen E has yet to see combat, although that partly changed in July when Thailand’s Gripen C/D was used in a border skirmish with Cambodia. This experience may give Saab some additional leverage in negotiations.

Industrial Cooperation Could Be the Deciding Factor

As in other Gripen deals, an offset package is essential. Saab typically offers technology transfer, investment in local industries, and training. Such commitments may be the key for Peru to opt for the Swedish jet over its French or American competitors.

Saab already has considerable experience in the region. Brazil manufactures the Gripen under license, and Colombia has recently selected the same aircraft. Should Peru follow suit, Sweden and Saab could firmly establish the Gripen as South America’s preferred combat aircraft.

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