In May 2024, Argentina sought Scorpène submarines from France amid financial woes, initiating a military modernization phase to bolster both air and naval capabilities. Following the recent acquisition of 24 F-16 fighter jets from Denmark, Argentina’s focus has now shifted toward enhancing its naval fleet with new submarines to better secure its territorial waters.
Defense Minister Jorge Taiana confirmed that Argentina is in discussions with France’s Naval Group for three Scorpène-class submarines. However, the $2 billion price tag presents significant obstacles for Argentina’s constrained budget.
Current State of Argentina’s Submarine Fleet
Argentina’s existing submarines are outdated and largely non-operational. The ARA Salta, a relic of past naval strength, now only serves training purposes, while the ARA Santa Cruz has been under repair for years without returning to active service.
Given this shortage of operational submarines, Argentine sailors have had to rely on the Peruvian Navy for practical training, further underscoring Argentina’s naval capacity limitations. Financial constraints remain a prominent challenge as the government grapples with balancing defense needs with other pressing social demands, especially since more than half the population is currently below the poverty line.
Key Negotiations with France
Argentina seeks Scorpène submarines from France amid financial woes, but financing terms are complex. France has offered flexible credit options, signalling its willingness to support Argentina’s defense modernization. During an official visit, French Defence Minister Sébastien Lecornu stressed France’s dedication to fostering defense ties in Latin America, describing the Scorpène deal as a cornerstone of Argentine-French cooperation.
The potential deal includes maintenance support, spare parts, and extensive training programs that ensure the long-term operational readiness of the submarines—key elements that Argentina has stipulated are required in these negotiations.
Scorpène-Class Submarine: A Technical Overview
The Scorpène-class submarine is an advanced diesel-electric attack vessel designed for a wide range of operational roles. At approximately 66.4 meters in length and 1,600 to 2,000 tonnes, depending on configuration, these submarines are equipped to operate at maximum depths of 300 meters and reach speeds of 20 knots underwater.
Key to Argentina’s interest is the Scorpène’s air-independent propulsion (AIP) system, the MESMA, which allows for extended underwater endurance. This advanced technology enables the submarine to remain submerged for up to three weeks without needing to surface for battery recharging, offering a strategic advantage in surveillance and patrol missions.
The Scorpène’s Advanced Armament
A key reason for Argentina’s interest is the Scorpène’s advanced weapon systems. Each submarine has six 533 mm torpedo tubes for Black Shark heavy torpedoes and Exocet SM39 anti-ship missiles. The Black Shark torpedo is highly accurate, reaching speeds above 90 km/h and a range of up to 50 km.
The Exocet missile can strike surface targets effectively at distances of about 50 km. The submarine can carry up to 18 torpedoes or missiles, offering strong combat flexibility. It can also deploy sea mines, making it adaptable for a wide range of naval missions.
Sophisticated Detection and Combat Systems
Equipped with the Submarine Tactical Integrated Combat System (SUBTICS), the Scorpène integrates weaponry, sensors, and communication systems for efficient target detection and engagement. The submarine’s sonar suite, which includes bow-mounted, flank, and stern sonar arrays, enables precise tracking of underwater threats.
Its low acoustic signature and noise-masking technologies contribute to its stealth, making the Scorpène a formidable challenge for adversaries to detect. Enhanced with optical-electronic and infrared periscopes, as well as radar for surface monitoring, the Scorpène is well-suited for Argentina’s geographic and strategic needs.
Local Manufacturing: Sustaining Naval Expertise
Defense Minister Taiana has highlighted the importance of preserving Argentina’s naval expertise, suggesting that local construction could mitigate reliance on foreign technology. Taiana has expressed concern that without prompt action, Argentina risks losing its valuable knowledge base in submarine operations and maintenance. By incorporating local manufacturing and technological transfers into the deal, Argentina hopes to sustain its naval capabilities and reduce its dependence on imported defense technology over the long term.
Public Sentiment and Budget Constraints
While Argentina seeks Scorpène submarines from France in the midst of financial woes, it must strike a difficult balance between addressing widespread social needs and ensuring national defense. Over 50% of Argentina’s population lives in poverty, and the significant expense of military acquisitions may provoke public discontent. The government must tread carefully, as prioritizing military modernization over social welfare could intensify existing economic challenges.
Strategic Implications for Regional Defense
Argentina’s defense minister has reiterated the strategic significance of a capable submarine fleet, especially considering that neighboring countries like Brazil and Chile already have several operational submarines. The tragic loss of ARA San Juan in 2017 underscored Argentina’s need to rebuild its underwater defense capabilities.
Taiana emphasized that operational submarines are essential for territorial water management and regional stability. The Scorpène submarines, already employed by both Chile and Brazil, offer Argentina a proven and reliable option that aligns with its regional security goals.
French-Argentine Cooperation: A Milestone in Defense Relations
This acquisition is a major step in French-Argentine defense cooperation, as Lecornu emphasized during his official meetings. France’s Naval Group has offered Argentina a package that includes the submarines, training, maintenance, and technology integration.
The deal ensures Argentina receives the skills and support needed to operate and sustain the new vessels effectively. Both nations benefit from this partnership, which supports regional stability and strengthens Argentina’s maritime defensive posture. It also enhances France’s strategic footprint in Latin America, deepening its influence and defense ties in the region.
Conclusion
Argentina seeks Scorpène submarines from France; financial troubles make modernizing its naval fleet a difficult task. The Scorpène-class submarines promise advanced, flexible, and stealthy capabilities for Argentina’s maritime security and regional influence.
They could significantly strengthen Argentina’s ability to protect its waters and project power in South America. Negotiations with France continue, with possible financial aid from Paris to support the submarine acquisition.
If this deal is successful, it could give Argentina a much-needed boost in its defense capabilities. However, balancing military ambitions with urgent social and economic needs remains a major challenge for the government.
References
- Naval Group. (2023). Scorpène-class submarines: specifications and capabilities. Retrieved from [Naval Group Official Site]
- Taiana, J. (2024). Interview on Argentina’s Naval Defense Strategy. Buenos Aires Times.
- Lecornu, S. (2024). Address to French defense partnerships in Latin America. French Ministry of Defence Publications.
