| Work Detail |
With the arrival and installation of a large-scale asphalt plant, preliminary work has begun for the comprehensive rehabilitation of the runway at the Las Higueras Airport , as part of the operational adaptation plan that will allow for the arrival of the F-16 fighter jets acquired by Argentina from Denmark. The project, which will require a total investment of $12.7 billion , will be carried out by the Ministry of Defense and will be carried out between June 3 and September 3, 2025. According to the mayor of Las Higueras, Gianfranco Lucchesi, the works involve the complete repaving of the 2,260 meters of runway , in addition to the widening of the runways and adjustments to the margins to facilitate turning maneuvers , in line with the technical requirements demanded by combat aircraft. The works also include the modernization of the beacon system , with a specific allocation of $500 million for cable replacement, the installation of new regulators, and the adaptation of LED technology to taxiways, aprons, thresholds, and runway ends. New mandatory aeronautical vertical markings will also be added at taxiways . During the execution of the works, commercial flights to Buenos Aires will be suspended , given that the interventions require the complete closure of the runway for operational safety reasons. This ambitious project not only enhances the local airport infrastructure, but also marks a strategic leap forward for the national defense system , as the Río Cuarto Material Area will be the logistical and technical base for the maintenance of the F-16s , which will strengthen their role within the Armed Forces and generate a hub of specialization in military aeronautical technology. The purchase of the aircraft, for a value of USD 300 million , contemplates that a portion of the fleet will be operational starting in 2026. The current infrastructure work is an indispensable technical condition to guarantee the operability, parking, and safe maintenance of the multi-role fighters. |
