Key UK ally hands Argentina F-16s amid simmering Falkland Island tensions

is set to see a significant military boost as the US government looks to sign off on a nearly $1bn deal providing the South American country with F-16 fighter jets.

The State Department has given the green light for a potential Foreign Military Sale to the Government of Argentina, including F-16 Aircraft Equipment and Support, along with related logistics and program support elements.

The estimated cost of this deal is a staggering $941 (£728) million. It comes amid heated rhetoric over the , which Argentina claims.

The proposed sale will and national security objectives by enhancing the security of the non- ally, which the US says contributes to political stability and economic progress in .

The State Department said: "The suggested sale will boost Argentina's ability to tackle current and future threats by providing additional capacity for air defence, offensive counter-air, and close air support operations."

American manufacturers will also provide Buenos Aires with guided missiles, bombs, countermeasures, and communications equipment.

The used Lockheed Martin F-16s, , are being bought from Denmark as part of a deal signed in April. Spare parts, aircraft sustainment services, and aerial refuelling services will support the fleet.

Argentina also requested 36 Raytheon AIM-120 C-8 Advanced Medium Range Air-to-Air Missiles, 102 Mk-82 226kg general purpose bombs, and 50 Raytheon GBU-12 Paveway II laser-guided bombs.

Recently, Argentine President has tried to foster a stronger connection with the US by distancing himself from China and Russia.

Argentina's fighter jet supply was decimated in the Falklands War, and further restrictions prevented any UK-made military components from being transferred to the country.

In 2022, Washington began trying to broker a deal for the used F-16s, and a UK policy change allowed sales to Argentina, but only of weapons that are "not detrimental to the ".