The Modernization of South American Militaries: Opportunities, Challenges, and Future Directions

Emerging technologies, mounting security challenges, and geopolitical pressures are driving several South American countries to modernize their armed forces. From Brazil's push for domestic manufacturing of naval and air assets, to Colombia's counter-drone shield initiative, the region is home to a range of new defense procurement and industrial initiatives. At the same time, the United States is pushing for members of the Shield of the Americas grouping to increase their defense spending to better combat organized crime groups in the Western Hemisphere.

This event will explore the state of South American military modernization efforts, tracing the origins and state of various procurement drives as well as their implications for regional security. It will also evaluate the political economy of defense spending in the region, and what the future may hold for various modernization efforts. Finally, it will explore how South American military efforts intersect with the United States' increased security engagement with the Western Hemisphere.

This event is made possible by general support to CSIS.