Argentina is exploring submarine acquisitions to modernize its Navy, with TKMS’s Type 209NG and Naval Group’s Scorpène-class proposals. Recent developments suggest Germany is readying financial support for TKMS, with key decisions expected soon. The process is complicated by fiscal policies and the anticipated delivery timeline extending to 2034 and 2035.
Germany is committed to furthering its proposal to supply TKMS Type 209NG submarines to the Argentine Navy, amidst ongoing efforts by the Argentine government to acquire modern attack submarines. In 2024, significant progress has been made with the signing of a Letter of Intent for French Scorpène-class submarines, though the selection process for suppliers remains unfinished. Recent reports suggest that the German government is preparing to endorse guarantees to bolster TKMS’s submarine offer to Argentina.
The Ministry of Defense in Argentina is working to enhance the capabilities of its Submarine Force through the acquisition of either Scorpène-class submarines from Naval Group or Type 209NG submarines from TKMS. Each offer entails the provision of three submarines, backed by respective national governments, which is customary in such high-value military transactions. A Letter of Intent signed with Naval Group marks an important step, offering a basis for further negotiations, yet competitive proposals may still emerge from other firms.
According to a January report by Reuters, the German government is poised to approve approximately $4.27 billion in guarantees to support the TKMS submarine bid. Representatives from the Argentine Ministry of Defense have indicated that financing will be pivotal in the ultimate decision-making process, highlighted in the anticipated 2025 Budget Proposal, which may extend the financing plans outlined in the 2023 National Budget for the submarine deal.
The projected arrival of German submarines is set for 2034 and 2035, with approval for state guarantees expected imminently. Negotiations regarding this acquisition have recently maintained a low profile as they await necessary governmental authorizations. Given the approval process involves various governmental departments, adherence to a strict fiscal policy remains crucial for the Ministry of Economy as it reviews the proposals.
This article discusses the ongoing efforts of the Argentine government, led by its Ministry of Defense, to acquire new submarines to enhance the operational capability of the Argentine Navy. The competition is primarily between two manufacturers: France’s Naval Group offering Scorpène-class submarines and Germany’s TKMS with its Type 209NG submarines. The decision hinges significantly on financing options and government support, reflecting the complexities involved in military procurement processes.
In summary, Argentina is actively pursuing the acquisition of new submarines, with bids from both TKMS and Naval Group. The decision will be heavily influenced by financing arrangements and government guarantees, particularly from Germany. As the approval process continues, the timeline for the delivery of the submarines extends into the mid-2030s, indicating a long-term commitment to enhancing the Argentine Navy’s capabilities.
Original Source: www.zona-militar.com
