Colombia to choose NATO fighter jet supplier soon

Colombia's Defense Minister Pedro Sanchez announced that the country will choose a NATO fighter jet supplier within months. Colombia aims to replace its aging Israeli Kfir planes and is considering options like U.S. F-16s, Sweden's Gripen, and France's Rafale. Sanchez highlighted the growing military strength of illegal armed groups amid ongoing peace negotiations. He noted that these groups have expanded their operations, taking advantage of the situation, which poses a challenge to national security. The Colombian government has a budget of $3.65 billion for purchasing around 16 new planes. Sanchez also mentioned concerns about potential cuts to U.S. military aid, which could impact efforts against drug trafficking and organized crime.