The South Korean corporation Hyundai Rotem signed an agreement with Peru on November 16, 2024, regarding strategic cooperation, which includes the supply of K2 main battle tanks and K808 infantry fighting vehicles as part of the modernization program for the Peruvian armed forces.
This agreement was signed in Lima, the capital of Peru, during a ceremony attended by representatives from the military-political leadership of both countries, according to Army Recognition portal.
It is anticipated that under this contract, Peru will receive K2ME variant tanks, which are adapted for operation in hot climate conditions.
The agreement signed on November 16 is general in nature and outlines the scope and scale of the armored vehicle supply program for the Peruvian army; however, specific figures have not been disclosed.
At the same time, the next step in implementing the agreements between Peru and South Korea will be the conclusion of firm contracts, which will specify the delivery timelines and costs, maintenance conditions, and details regarding personnel training.
Additionally, it is emphasized that the South Korean government "actively supported the agreement" with Peru through diplomatic means, meaning, simply put, the South Korean side took the initiative to promote its armored vehicles in a new market.
According to The Military Balance 2024, the Peruvian armed forces currently have 165 T-55 tanks in service and another 75 in storage; 96 AMX-13 light tanks, some of which are equipped with Kornet ATGMs; and 295 armored personnel carriers of various types, including 120 M113 units and 95 wheeled reconnaissance vehicles, such as 30 BRDM-2s.
Earlier, Defense Express reported that F-16, Gripen, and Rafale are superior to MiG-29 and Mirage 2000, but this is not enough for Peru, which is setting new conditions.
We also mentioned that South Korea is "aiming" to sell its K2 and K9 to Qatar, which has 62 Leopard 2A7 and up to 24 PzH 2000.