Argentina, Israel Plan Defense Collaboration on UAVs, Small Arms

Argentina and Israel have agreed to collaborate on defense projects, focusing on cyber defense, UAVs, and small arms.

During an official visit to Israel on December 2, Argentina’s Defense Minister Luis Petri met with his Israeli counterpart, Defense Minister Israel Katz. Discussions highlighted Argentina's support for Israel amidst ongoing regional conflicts, underscoring the strategic partnership between the two nations.

Minister Katz proposed a multi-year program to enhance cooperation through workshops and strategic dialogue. This initiative aims to strengthen ties and explore opportunities in defense technology and research, with a focus on mutual stability and security.

The two countries agreed to collaborate on defense projects, focusing on cyber defense, unmanned aerial vehicles, border protection, satellite communications, and future government-to-government contracts in small arms, ammunition, and communication equipment.

Petri also met with Defense Ministry Director General Maj. Gen. (Res.) Eyal Zamir to discuss regional security issues, including Iran’s activities in the Middle East and Latin America. Both sides emphasized continued collaboration to address shared security concerns.

The visit, facilitated by Argentine Ambassador Axel Wahnish and Israeli Ambassador Eyal Sela, also prioritized attracting investment and transferring technology to Argentina.

Argentina-Israel defense cooperation

Argentina has previously procured Elta Systems' drone detection systems and UVision's 'Hero' loitering munitions. This year, Israeli firms have reportedly proposed supplying UH-60L Black Hawk helicopters and Spike LR2 anti-tank missiles to Argentina. The country is also reportedly considering the purchase of Arad 7 assault rifles from Israeli company IWI. Additionally, Argentina is modernizing its tank fleet through the TAM 2C-A2 program with Elbit Systems, aiming to upgrade 74 tanks over five years, with an option to modernize 30 more, potentially exceeding 100 tanks in total.