The Argentine Defense Industry, its Past and Current State: An Evaluation
Abstract

Thomas Scheetz
Lincoln University College, La Lucila, Buenos Aires
Universidad Argentina de la Empresa, Buenos Aires

The paper presents a brief history of the Argentine defense industry and the reasons for its growth. The process of privatization during the 1990s is then described, followed by a summary of the few small industries remaining. The case of the lone remaining major arms producer is then analyzed in greater depth: the licensed production of aircraft and repair services by Lockheed Martin Argentina. Finally, some conclusions about viable defense industries in LDCs is given.