Peru’s plan to import South Korean KT-1 trainer planes has moved ahead following assurance from the Peruvian president Alan Garcia to South Korea, according to South Korean special envoy Lee Sang-deuk.

“Garcia was … satisfied with various supportive measures, such as a private pilot training programme. The president promised to confirm the deal after consulting with the Defence Ministry,” he added.

Further negotiations will take place once the deal is signed, making South Korea a preferred bidder to export the planes.

The KT-1, built in cooperation with the Agency for Defense Development, has a maximum speed of 574km/h and can reach an attitude of 11,000m.

The South Korean Air Force currently operates 85 such aircraft.