According to information published by Defensa on May 20, 2024, for the first time under the current Argentine administration, Chief of Cabinet Nicolás Posse addressed the Senate to outline the government’s defense policies. During a marathon session lasting several hours, Posse fielded numerous questions about the administration’s stance on national defense.
Posse revealed that Argentina is negotiating with French shipbuilder Naval Group and German company ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems to acquire three submarines. This move aims to restore the country’s lost submarine combat capability, a strategic necessity for maintaining balance in the South Atlantic.
The focus is on the Scorpene-class submarine from Naval Group and the Type 209 submarine from TKMS. Both companies have presented significant offers, but the selection and acquisition process will take years, especially given Argentina’s challenging economic situation.
In the interim, Argentina is negotiating with Norway to acquire at least one Ula-class submarine. These cost-effective, technologically advanced submarines would serve as transitional vessels.