The China FactorBehind the scenes, the F-16 decision was shaped as much by geopolitics as by military capability. "But it was also clear that any decision involving Chinese military equipment would have broader geopolitical implications, particularly in relation to the United States." "The F-16 deal was clearly a political decision by Milei and sends a clear message," he added. Nevertheless, Cafiero continued, the Chinese system would have given Argentina full autonomy and a weapons system entirely new to Latin America. Closing the Door on AlternativesBy selecting the F-16, Argentina formally ruled out Chinese and Indian options.