The Condor Simmer

The Sky War of Cenepa

An Illustrated Tale of Aerial Combat

On the 10th of February, 1995, the skies over the Cenepa valley blazed with the fury of one of the most intense aerial combats in the history of the Andes. This dramatic episode, part of the larger Ecuador-Peru conflict, showcased the bravery and skill of Ecuadorian pilots as they took on formidable Peruvian forces. Dive into this historic clash, vividly narrated and illustrated, to relive the tension and heroism of that fateful day.

In December 1994, tensions between Ecuador and Peru erupted into the most significant armed conflict since 1941. The dispute over the Cordillera del Cóndor, specifically the Cenepa river basin, escalated quickly. By January 26, 1995, Ecuadorian forces had attacked a Peruvian patrol, prompting intense aerial and ground responses. The Ecuadorian Air Force (FAE), anticipating a major conflict, mobilized its squadrons to strategic positions.

On the morning of February 10, 1995, Peruvian SU-22s and A-37Bs launched from Talara and Piura with the mission to bomb Ecuadorian positions. Ecuadorian radar detected the incursion, and at 12:49 PM, orders were given for immediate takeoff. Mirage F1s, piloted by Major Raúl "Manabita" Banderas and Captain Carlos "Quiteño" Uzcátegui, and Kfir C.2s, piloted by Captains Mauricio Mata and Guido Moya, prepared for the imminent clash.

At 12:57 PM, the Mirage F1s detected two Peruvian Sukhoi Su-22s, piloted by Commander Víctor Maldonado and Major Enrique Caballero. As the Ecuadorian jets approached from behind, Captain Uzcátegui meticulously checked his armament systems, preparing for the attack.

Major Banderas fired the first missile, a Matra Magic II, which struck one of the Su-22s. Captain Uzcátegui followed with his own missile, hitting his target. Both pilots launched a second missile each, ensuring the destruction of the enemy aircraft. The Peruvian pilots ejected, but their fates diverged tragically.

Major Banderas fired the first missile, a Matra Magic II, which struck one of the Su-22s. Captain Uzcátegui followed with his own missile, hitting his target. Both pilots launched a second missile each, ensuring the destruction of the enemy aircraft. The Peruvian pilots ejected, but their fates diverged tragically.

Testimony from Captain Uzcátegui: "Approaching the conflict zone, my mind was singularly focused: keep the armament switches 'hot' and maintain position relative to the leader for mutual protection. As we gained visual contact, we entered attack formation. The missile warning tone in my headset signaled we were in a good firing position."

Testimony from Major Banderas: "Descending at 0.95 Mach, I spotted the enemy and fired my first missile from 1.5 miles away. The missile found its mark, and the enemy aircraft began trailing smoke. I launched a second missile, which hit with a spectacular explosion."

The Mirage F1s performed evasive maneuvers upon detecting radar threats, releasing electronic countermeasures. They returned to base at low altitude, skimming the treetops to avoid detection and enemy fire.

The successful mission marked a turning point in the conflict. The Peruvian Air Force refrained from further incursions, shaken by the effectiveness of the Ecuadorian pilots. The engagement had a profound impact on the morale and strategic decisions of both sides.

The aerial combat over the Cenepa valley on February 10, 1995, stands as a testament to the skill and bravery of the Ecuadorian Air Force. Through their actions, they not only defended their nation's sovereignty but also demonstrated the intense, unforgiving nature of aerial warfare. This illustrated account honors their legacy and ensures that this critical moment in history is remembered.