Lima: The US has approved a potential $1.5 billion foreign military sale to Peru aimed at upgrading the Peruvian Navy's main base. This development was confirmed through a notification sent to the US Congress, signifying a significant enhancement of Peru's naval infrastructure.
According to Anadolu Agency, the Defense Security Cooperation Agency announced in a statement that the State Department has authorized the sale, which will focus on the design and construction of facilities at the Callao Naval Base. The agreement includes logistics and program support elements estimated at a cost of $1.5 billion.
The request from Peru involves a comprehensive range of services, excluding major defense equipment. These services encompass lifecycle design, construction, project management, engineering studies, technical support, and infrastructure assessments. Additionally, the package will provide US government and contractor engineering, technical, and logistical support.
The proposed sale is viewed as a contribution to the foreign policy objectives of the United States. It is intended to bolster the security of Peru, seen as a key partner in promoting political stability, peace, and economic progress in South America. The sale is anticipated to enhance Peru's port infrastructure, thereby supporting current and future naval and logistical operations while minimizing civilian-military interaction at the existing base.
The proposed construction and support sale are not expected to alter the regional military balance. Up to 20 US government or contractor representatives may be deployed to Peru for construction management and oversight over the next decade.
The Callao port is noted as a competitor to the Chinese-built mega-port in Chancay, located approximately 80 kilometers north of Lima. This move by the US aligns with an increasingly assertive stance in South America, reflected in recent actions in Venezuela and potential moves involving Colombia, Cuba, and Mexico.
Analysts have interpreted these actions as part of the US strategy to counter China's expanding influence in the region.