Peruvian authorities plan to update the country's Air Force fleet by getting rid of 16 outdated fourth-generation MiG-29 fighters purchased from Belarus in 1996 for $250 million. They may be replaced by Lockheed Martin F-16V Block 70, SAAB JAS 39 Gripen, and Dassault Rafale F4 aircraft, according to Bulgarian Military.
The Belarusian MiG-29s were mostly of the 9.13 modification, which boasted an increased fuel tank capacity and an N019 radar.
To be prepared to repel regional threats, Peru modernized the fighters to the MiG-29SMP version. The aircraft received new radars, avionics, and weapons.
According to Bulgarian Military, the Peruvian Air Force may be supplemented by American F-16s, Swedish Saab JAS 39 Gripen, and French Dassault Rafale F4s.
The Peruvians would like to give their MiG-29s to Russia for modernization, but due to Western sanctions and problems with the supply of components, they will consider other options.
Israel has modernized Soviet-era aircraft, including the MiG-21 and MiG-29, for various countries by integrating advanced avionics, electronics, and weapons systems.
In Poland, many companies have also collaborated with Western firms, working to upgrade the MiG-29 fleet to NATO standards.
