The first six F-16 fighter jets acquired by the Government have already begun the final stage of their transfer to Argentina. The fleet, part of the 24 aircraft purchased from Denmark, left behind its stopover in Zaragoza and later in Canarias to make the transatlantic crossing.
After that leg, the aircraft have already entered South America and will land at their first regional base: the city of Natal, Brazil. This is one of the most commonly used access points for military operations on the continent.
The Ministry of Defense, led by Luis Petri,confirmed that the operation is proceeding without setbacks. In this context, the minister, who will leave his post in the coming days to take office as a deputy, celebrated the milestone.
"Our F-16s are already flying high. (...) Get ready, because what's coming is historic. A day we will remember forever, when a great Argentina begins to emerge," he stated on social media.
The transfer is supported by strong logistics that include a Hercules, a Boeing 737-700, and a KC-135R Stratotanker for in-flight refueling. These belong to the United States Air Force.
Los F-16 ya vuelan en cielos sudamericanos.
When they will arrive in the country and what their route will be
The arrival of the first six F-16s in Argentine territory is scheduled for Friday the 5th. This will be the final leg of an extensive international journey, meticulously planned to ensure the safety and coordination among the three forces involved: Argentina, Denmark, and the United States.
Se preveen demostraciones al llegar a suelo argentino
After touching down in Argentina, on the 6th and 7th the aircraft will perform maneuvers and flyovers over various points in the City of Buenos Aires. The flyovers include the Avenida de Mayo axis and the area of the Casa Rosada.
Between December 7 and 8, the Ministry of Defense is considering extending the itinerary to Mendoza, San Luis, and Córdoba. The aerial demonstrations have not yet been officially confirmed but are being considered.
The operation will conclude on Friday the 12th, when the F-16s will be officially presented at the Río Cuarto military base. The presentation ceremony will be held before military authorities, pilots, and the public.
Which models make up the first batch
According to official information, this initial delivery consists of:
Two F-16AM single-seat
Four F-16BM two-seat
The AMs are prepared for solo tactical missions, while the BMs have dual cockpits for advanced training. Both are fourth-generation fighter jets, with extensive experience in NATO air forces and recognized for their responsiveness in defensive and offensive missions.
The purchase was finalized through a bilateral agreement between Argentina and Denmark, with the support of the United States Government.
