Photo By Staff Sgt. Steven Cardo | U.S. Air Force Maj. Taylor “FEMA” Hiester, F-16 Viper Demonstration Team commander...... read more read more
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The U.S. Air Force demonstrated advanced airpower and precision parachute capability during the 2026 Peruvian Airshow at Las Palmas Air Base, Peru, April 25, 2026.
U.S. participation included the F-16 Viper Demonstration Team and the U.S. Air Force Academy Wings of Blue parachute team, marking the second consecutive year of U.S. involvement in the Lima-based event and reinforcing interoperability with Peruvian counterparts.
“Airshows are more than just a stunning display of aviation, they are a living demonstration of our powerful friendship and commitment to continued partnership,” said U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Jeffrey “Buddha” Budis, Air Boss for the U.S. participating forces. “I always wanted to be a pilot and remember the impression that was made on me as a young boy. We are not just displaying the full might of airpower but also shaping dreams and endless possibilities for the future of our nations.”
The two-day airshow, hosted by the Peruvian Air Force (FAP), brought together U.S. and Peruvian forces to demonstrate combined capability and strengthen partnership through integrated aerial and parachute operations.
During the airshow, Maj. Taylor “FEMA” Hiester, F-16 Viper Demonstration Team commander and pilot, flew an F-16C Fighting Falcon, executing a series of aerial maneuvers that highlighted the aircraft’s performance and the precision required in high-performance flight.
“These demonstrations represent the full spectrum of what the F-16 is capable of, from precision handling at high speed to the discipline and training required to execute in dynamic environments,” said Hiester. “It’s an opportunity to connect with our partners, build trust through shared experience, and demonstrate the level of readiness and capability we bring when we operate together.
The U.S. Air Force Academy Wings of Blue parachute team showcased interoperability through a precision demonstration alongside FAP Special Forces and their jump team, the Blue Knights, as well as civilian parachutists. The Blue Knights are selected for their advanced capabilities, including free fall, static line and operational jumps.
U.S. Ambassador to Peru Bernie Navarro attended the event and thanked the F-16 Viper Demonstration Team and Wings of Blue for their professionalism and commitment to strengthening ties with Peruvian partners. Hiester, in turn, expressed his appreciation for the experience.
“On behalf of the entire F-16 demonstration team, I’d like to express our most sincere appreciation to the people of Peru for welcoming us to celebrate our partnership,” said Hiester. “I am very eager to see Peru’s love of the F-16 grow into the love the people of the United States have for the airplane that has defended America and her partners for over five decades,” said Hiester.
The F-16 Viper Demonstration Team and Wings of Blue conducted additional demonstrations the second day of the airshow, engaging directly with Peruvian counterparts to exchange expertise and build relationships that strengthen interoperability and ensure forces are ready to operate together in real-world scenarios.
| Date Taken: | 04.26.2026 |
| Date Posted: | 04.27.2026 15:53 |
| Story ID: | 563667 |
| Location: | LIMA, PE |
| Web Views: | 39 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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