Mexico · Defense

Key Facts

—Current fleet. Mexico operates only three aging Northrop F-5E/F Tiger II fighters, in service since 1982.

—Program goal. The Air Force aims to buy about 12 new jets to restore air defense and ground-attack capabilities.

—Frontrunner. The U.S.-made F-16 Block 70/72 Viper is considered the leading candidate despite its higher cost.