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Miami Herald
13-06-2025
- Business
- Miami Herald
Chile's defense policy shift carries high costs
SANTIAGO, Chile, June 13 (UPI) -- President Gabriel Boric's plan to replace Israel as Chile's primary arms supplier presents logistical and strategic challenges for the country's armed forces. Chile's president has sharply criticized Israel's military actions in Gaza. In his recent state of the nation address, he supported Spain's proposal for an arms embargo on Israel "to prevent more children from being killed." "I have instructed the defense minister to quickly present a plan to diversify our defense trade relationships so we can stop relying on Israeli industry in all areas," Boric said. Since 1977, Chile has purchased more than $850 million worth of Israeli weapons, according to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute. By 1989, Israel supplied 42.5% of Chile's total weapon imports. During Sebastián Piñera's administration, Chile signed new agreements with Israel covering weapons, security technology and cybersecurity. The path toward supplier diversification is complex. Chile's armed forces maintain a significant inventory of Israeli-made equipment. Changing suppliers requires a transition process that could affect existing system interoperability. Integrating new platforms and technologies from multiple sources takes time, training and often costly modifications to ensure systems from different countries can operate together efficiently. This is especially critical in joint operations, where compatibility between communications gear, navigation systems and weapons is essential. Experts say replacing deeply integrated Israeli systems could weaken Chile's overall operational capability. "The relationship with an arms supplier goes far beyond the initial purchase. It involves agreements for logistical support, spare parts, long-term maintenance and technological upgrades," said César Cereceda, a defense expert and president of the Association of Retired Armed Forces Personnel. Severing or weakening ties with an established supplier like Israel could disrupt the supply chain for critical parts, affecting the operation and availability of existing equipment. Trust and a strong support track record are crucial in military technology procurement, Cereceda added. Military equipment also requires highly trained personnel for operation and maintenance. Changing suppliers means training troops on new systems, requiring investments in time and resources. Chile may consider Brazil, Turkey and India as new suppliers, but it must first evaluate whether their products meet the country's specific defense needs. Brazil has a developing defense industry focused on land systems, aircraft and some naval platforms. While it has made progress, its technology may not match Israel's level of sophistication, particularly in high-tech sectors. Turkey's defense industry has expanded rapidly in recent years, making notable advances in drones, armored vehicles and naval systems. Its development has been impressive, but it has yet to fully consolidate as a comprehensive supplier. India's large industrial base and its ambitious "Made in India" policy are key strengths in its bid to become a defense supplier. However, it still relies heavily on foreign technology for complex systems, and its ability to export advanced weapons at scale remains limited. "Chile's defense policy has long focused on diversifying strategic acquisitions," said Gabriel Gaspar, an international analyst and former deputy defense secretary. He noted that the armed forces operate German armored vehicles, ships from the U.K., Australia and the Netherlands and U.S.-made F-16 fighter jets. "All of these supply lines rely on NATO-standard technology, offering broad compatibility -- from calibers to communication systems," Gaspar said. "Switching to a different line of weaponry is always possible, but it requires long-term policy and funding." The cost of replacing existing technology could range from $15 billion to $20 billion, according to estimates by Fernando Wilson, an analyst at Chile's Adolfo Ibáñez University. Reducing dependence on a single supplier would strengthen Chile's strategic autonomy and reduce its vulnerability to potential embargoes or shifts in bilateral relations. Exploring new markets would allow Chile to access different technologies and approaches in the defense industry, potentially strengthening its long-term military capabilities. However, experts say a complete switch in suppliers and the replacement of all Israeli technology and systems currently in use could come at a very high cost. Copyright 2025 UPI News Corporation. All Rights Reserved.
Yahoo
13-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Chile's defense policy shift carries high costs
SANTIAGO, Chile, June 13 (UPI) -- President Gabriel Boric's plan to replace Israel as Chile's primary arms supplier presents logistical and strategic challenges for the country's armed forces. Chile's president has sharply criticized Israel's military actions in Gaza. In his recent state of the nation address, he supported Spain's proposal for an arms embargo on Israel "to prevent more children from being killed." "I have instructed the defense minister to quickly present a plan to diversify our defense trade relationships so we can stop relying on Israeli industry in all areas," Boric said. Since 1977, Chile has purchased more than $850 million worth of Israeli weapons, according to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute. By 1989, Israel supplied 42.5% of Chile's total weapon imports. During Sebastián Piñera's administration, Chile signed new agreements with Israel covering weapons, security technology and cybersecurity. The path toward supplier diversification is complex. Chile's armed forces maintain a significant inventory of Israeli-made equipment. Changing suppliers requires a transition process that could affect existing system interoperability. Integrating new platforms and technologies from multiple sources takes time, training and often costly modifications to ensure systems from different countries can operate together efficiently. This is especially critical in joint operations, where compatibility between communications gear, navigation systems and weapons is essential. Experts say replacing deeply integrated Israeli systems could weaken Chile's overall operational capability. "The relationship with an arms supplier goes far beyond the initial purchase. It involves agreements for logistical support, spare parts, long-term maintenance and technological upgrades," said César Cereceda, a defense expert and president of the Association of Retired Armed Forces Personnel. Severing or weakening ties with an established supplier like Israel could disrupt the supply chain for critical parts, affecting the operation and availability of existing equipment. Trust and a strong support track record are crucial in military technology procurement, Cereceda added. Military equipment also requires highly trained personnel for operation and maintenance. Changing suppliers means training troops on new systems, requiring investments in time and resources. Chile may consider Brazil, Turkey and India as new suppliers, but it must first evaluate whether their products meet the country's specific defense needs. Brazil has a developing defense industry focused on land systems, aircraft and some naval platforms. While it has made progress, its technology may not match Israel's level of sophistication, particularly in high-tech sectors. Turkey's defense industry has expanded rapidly in recent years, making notable advances in drones, armored vehicles and naval systems. Its development has been impressive, but it has yet to fully consolidate as a comprehensive supplier. India's large industrial base and its ambitious "Made in India" policy are key strengths in its bid to become a defense supplier. However, it still relies heavily on foreign technology for complex systems, and its ability to export advanced weapons at scale remains limited. "Chile's defense policy has long focused on diversifying strategic acquisitions," said Gabriel Gaspar, an international analyst and former deputy defense secretary. He noted that the armed forces operate German armored vehicles, ships from the U.K., Australia and the Netherlands and U.S.-made F-16 fighter jets. "All of these supply lines rely on NATO-standard technology, offering broad compatibility -- from calibers to communication systems," Gaspar said. "Switching to a different line of weaponry is always possible, but it requires long-term policy and funding." The cost of replacing existing technology could range from $15 billion to $20 billion, according to estimates by Fernando Wilson, an analyst at Chile's Adolfo Ibáñez University. Reducing dependence on a single supplier would strengthen Chile's strategic autonomy and reduce its vulnerability to potential embargoes or shifts in bilateral relations. Exploring new markets would allow Chile to access different technologies and approaches in the defense industry, potentially strengthening its long-term military capabilities. However, experts say a complete switch in suppliers and the replacement of all Israeli technology and systems currently in use could come at a very high cost.
UPI
13-06-2025
- Business
- UPI
Chile's defense policy shift carries high costs
The Chilean armed forces rely on U.S.-made F-16 fighters. File photo by Marco Mesina/EPA-EFE SANTIAGO, Chile, June 13 (UPI) -- President Gabriel Boric's plan to replace Israel as Chile's primary arms supplier presents logistical and strategic challenges for the country's armed forces. Chile's president has sharply criticized Israel's military actions in Gaza. In his recent state of the nation address, he supported Spain's proposal for an arms embargo on Israel "to prevent more children from being killed." "I have instructed the defense minister to quickly present a plan to diversify our defense trade relationships so we can stop relying on Israeli industry in all areas," Boric said. Since 1977, Chile has purchased more than $850 million worth of Israeli weapons, according to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute. By 1989, Israel supplied 42.5% of Chile's total weapon imports. During Sebastián Piñera's administration, Chile signed new agreements with Israel covering weapons, security technology and cybersecurity. The path toward supplier diversification is complex. Chile's armed forces maintain a significant inventory of Israeli-made equipment. Changing suppliers requires a transition process that could affect existing system interoperability. Integrating new platforms and technologies from multiple sources takes time, training and often costly modifications to ensure systems from different countries can operate together efficiently. This is especially critical in joint operations, where compatibility between communications gear, navigation systems and weapons is essential. Experts say replacing deeply integrated Israeli systems could weaken Chile's overall operational capability. "The relationship with an arms supplier goes far beyond the initial purchase. It involves agreements for logistical support, spare parts, long-term maintenance and technological upgrades," said César Cereceda, a defense expert and president of the Association of Retired Armed Forces Personnel. Severing or weakening ties with an established supplier like Israel could disrupt the supply chain for critical parts, affecting the operation and availability of existing equipment. Trust and a strong support track record are crucial in military technology procurement, Cereceda added. Military equipment also requires highly trained personnel for operation and maintenance. Changing suppliers means training troops on new systems, requiring investments in time and resources. Chile may consider Brazil, Turkey and India as new suppliers, but it must first evaluate whether their products meet the country's specific defense needs. Brazil has a developing defense industry focused on land systems, aircraft and some naval platforms. While it has made progress, its technology may not match Israel's level of sophistication, particularly in high-tech sectors. Turkey's defense industry has expanded rapidly in recent years, making notable advances in drones, armored vehicles and naval systems. Its development has been impressive, but it has yet to fully consolidate as a comprehensive supplier. India's large industrial base and its ambitious "Made in India" policy are key strengths in its bid to become a defense supplier. However, it still relies heavily on foreign technology for complex systems, and its ability to export advanced weapons at scale remains limited. "Chile's defense policy has long focused on diversifying strategic acquisitions," said Gabriel Gaspar, an international analyst and former deputy defense secretary. He noted that the armed forces operate German armored vehicles, ships from the U.K., Australia and the Netherlands and U.S.-made F-16 fighter jets. "All of these supply lines rely on NATO-standard technology, offering broad compatibility -- from calibers to communication systems," Gaspar said. "Switching to a different line of weaponry is always possible, but it requires long-term policy and funding." The cost of replacing existing technology could range from $15 billion to $20 billion, according to estimates by Fernando Wilson, an analyst at Chile's Adolfo Ibáñez University. Reducing dependence on a single supplier would strengthen Chile's strategic autonomy and reduce its vulnerability to potential embargoes or shifts in bilateral relations. Exploring new markets would allow Chile to access different technologies and approaches in the defense industry, potentially strengthening its long-term military capabilities. However, experts say a complete switch in suppliers and the replacement of all Israeli technology and systems currently in use could come at a very high cost.
Fox News
08-06-2025
- Politics
- Fox News
Rubio condemns assassination attempt on Colombian presidential candidate Miguel Uribe
Secretary of State Marco Rubio and other politicians from the U.S. and Latin America condemned the shooting of Colombian presidential candidate Miguel Uribe on Sunday. Rubio blamed the assassination attempt on "violent leftist rhetoric" originating from the Colombian government. Uribe, a Colombian senator, is currently fighting for his life after sustaining three gunshot wounds, one of which was to the head. "The United States condemns in the strongest possible terms the attempted assassination of Senator Miguel Uribe. This is a direct threat to democracy and the result of the violent leftist rhetoric coming from the highest levels of the Colombian government," Rubio wrote. "Having seen firsthand Colombia's progress over the past few decades to consolidate security and democracy, it can't afford to go back to dark days of political violence. President Petro needs to dial back the inflammatory rhetoric and protect Colombian officials," he added. Ohio Sen. Bernie Moreno also condemned the attack in a statement on social media. "The assassination attempt on leading presidential candidate Miguel Uribe is a vile attack on democracy. This evil act must be investigated and anyone responsible, directly or indirectly, must face swift punishment," Moreno wrote. Chilean President Gabriel Boric also reacted to Uribe's shooting. "My strongest condemnation of the attack against Miguel Uribe Turbay, pre-presidential candidate in Colombia. In a democracy, violence has no place or justification," Boric wrote. Authorities say Uribe was shot by a 15-year-old hit man, and they are investigating who was behind the attack. "Miguel is fighting for his life at this moment. Let us ask God to guide the hands of the doctors who are attending to him," Maria Claudia Tarazona, Miguel's wife, wrote on her husband's X account. "I ask everyone to join together in a prayer chain for Miguel's life." Colombian President Gustavo Petro, Uribe's chief opponent in the presidential race, said the attack crossed a "red line" and ordered an investigation. He also canceled a planned trip to France this week, citing the "seriousness of the events." Colombia's Ministry of Defense has offered a nearly $750,000 reward for information relating to the assassination attempt.
Arabian Post
07-06-2025
- Climate
- Arabian Post
Tremor Disrupts Northern Chile, Leaves Thousands Without Power
A 6.4 magnitude earthquake struck northern Chile on Friday afternoon, causing minor infrastructure damage and leaving nearly 23,000 residents without electricity. No casualties have been reported, and authorities have ruled out the possibility of a tsunami. The quake occurred at 1:15 p.m. local time, with its epicentre located approximately 54 kilometres south of Diego de Almagro in the Atacama region, about 950 kilometres north of Santiago. The U.S. Geological Survey recorded the earthquake at a depth of 76 kilometres. Tremors were felt across several communities in the expansive Atacama Desert region. Chile's Hydrographic and Oceanographic Service confirmed that the earthquake's characteristics did not meet the conditions necessary to generate a tsunami along the South American coast. Miguel Ortiz, deputy director of the National Disaster Prevention and Response Service , reported minor infrastructure damage and power disruptions. He also noted some minor landslides, which are being monitored in coordination with local municipalities. ADVERTISEMENT President Gabriel Boric stated that the government is in communication with regional authorities and confirmed that there were no reported casualties. The National Seismological Center of the University of Chile continues to assess potential damage to people, infrastructure, and essential services. Chile, situated on the Pacific Ring of Fire, is one of the most seismically active countries globally. The nation has stringent building codes and disaster response protocols to mitigate the impact of such natural events.
