Aviation News – Lockheed Martin has announced a comprehensive $1.8 billion industrial and social collaboration package for Peru tied to its Lockheed Martin F-16 Block 70 Peru fighter proposal.
The initiative combines high-value economic incentives with localized defense production to integrate Peruvian enterprises directly into Lockheed Martin’s global supply chain. A key highlight of the strategic offer includes domestic assembly of advanced unmanned aerospace vehicles specifically targeted at the broader Latin American market. Furthermore, the program outlines plans to establish dedicated joint research hubs alongside an Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) Technical Institute to expand regional aerospace expertise.
To build a sustainable industrial foundation, the proposal incorporates specialist-led engineering training, advanced fighter-maintenance courses, and an innovative space academy curriculum. The program also targets a significant expansion of Peru’s local maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) footprint. These collaborative initiatives aim to accelerate long-term economic growth while bolstering the national defense industrial bases of both Peru and the United States.
From an operational standpoint, integrating local defense firms into global supply chains establishes vital industrial redundancy while strengthening regional MRO readiness. Establishing specialized maintenance and assembly infrastructure within South America minimizes operational downtime for defense fleets and lowers long-term sustainment risks. Transferring technical capabilities for advanced unmanned systems transforms traditional procurement models into self-sustaining technological ecosystems, driving defense modernization across the region.
“Lockheed Martin is committed to building a long-term partnership that benefits Peru and its people, while strengthening its defense capabilities,” said Tara Lause, vice president of business development for the Integrated Fighter Group at Lockheed Martin. “As we collaborate with the local industry, we aim to deliver tangible, high-value opportunities that build a skilled workforce, enable knowledge transfer, and create lasting economic impact on both sides of the partnership.”
The proposed F-16 Block 70 ecosystem serves as a direct catalyst for internationalizing Peru’s domestic aerospace capabilities. By combining fighter maintenance, uncrewed systems assembly, and advanced technical education, the agreement positions Peru to become a primary Latin American hub for defense manufacturing and aviation services.
