French President Emmanuel Macron’s South America trip focused on promoting Scorpene submarines to Argentina, Brazil, and Chile, potentially yielding over $4 billion in military exports. Macron’s discussions included supporting Argentina’s plans for three submarines valued at $1.5 billion and exploring follow-on orders in Brazil, while Chile prepares to tender for submarine replacements worth $1 billion.
During his recent trip to South America to attend the G20 Summit, French President Emmanuel Macron extended his stay to reinforce France’s military export relationships with Argentina, Brazil, and Chile. Macron focused on promoting the sale of French-made Scorpene diesel-electric submarines, a venture that could potentially exceed $4 billion. He first visited Argentina, where he supported the Argentine Navy’s plans to acquire three submarines valued at $1.5 billion, essential for revitalizing their naval capabilities. Later, he met with Brazil’s President Lula da Silva to discuss potential follow-on orders, highlighting Brazil’s ongoing project to build Scorpene submarines with technology transferred from France. Macron’s visit concluded in Chile, which aims to replace its aging German-built submarines with a new order potentially worth $1 billion.
French military exports, especially regarding submarines, have become a vital component of France’s international relations, particularly in South America. The Scorpene submarine, designed by Naval Group of France, is regarded for its advanced technology and strategic capabilities. In recent years, countries such as Argentina and Brazil have expressed interest in enhancing their maritime defense through the acquisition of such vessels. This trip by President Macron exemplifies France’s intention to augment its defense relationships and secure lucrative arms deals in the region amidst ongoing geopolitical dynamics.
In summary, President Emmanuel Macron’s trip underscores France’s strategic efforts to enhance defense ties with key South American nations through the promotion of Scorpene submarines. By fostering these military relationships, Macron aims to secure significant arms exports while responding to the naval needs of Argentina, Brazil, and Chile. This endeavor not only reflects France’s export ambitions but also underscores the geopolitical importance of military collaboration in South America.
Original Source: www.defensenews.com
