Malaysia’s first Scorpène-class diesel-electric submarine. Photo: Wikimedia
Argentina has confirmed a preliminary agreement with France to acquire three Scorpène-class submarines for an estimated $2 billion and four offshore patrol vessels for €278 million.
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The announcement was made during the official visit of Argentine President Javier Milei to French President Emmanuel Macron, held in Buenos Aires.
An Initial Step in a Long Process
Argentina’s Defense Minister, Petri, emphasized that the agreement is still in its early stages. He stated, “This is not an agreement the government will announce in the coming months.” According to Petri, even if the contract is signed, deliveries will not begin until mid-2025, and the submarines will take about five years to be completed.
Restoring Submarine Capabilities
The primary goal of acquiring the Scorpène submarines is to restore Argentina’s submarine capabilities, which were severely compromised after the loss of the **ARA San Juan** in 2017. The tragedy, which claimed the lives of 44 crew members, marked a critical point for the country’s submarine fleet. This new acquisition represents a significant effort to modernize and expand Argentina’s naval defense.
Submarine ARA San Juan at the Buenos Aires Naval Station in May 2017. Photo: Flickr
Scorpène-Class Submarines
Developed by the French Naval Group, Scorpène-class submarines are known for their modular design, allowing customization to meet the specific needs of naval forces. They are equipped with:
- Six 533 mm torpedo tubes;
- Capacity to carry 18 heavy torpedoes, anti-ship missiles such as the SM-39 Exocet, or up to 30 naval mines;
- Diesel-electric propulsion systems and air-independent propulsion (AIP).
Scorpène submarines can reach speeds of 20 knots underwater, dive to depths of 350 meters, and operate for up to 50 days without surfacing, depending on the variant. This advanced technology makes them a preferred choice for many navies worldwide.
International Experience with Scorpène
Scorpène-class submarines are already in service in several countries:
Chile: Two submarines commissioned in the 2000s;
Malaysia: Two submarines delivered between 2009 and 2010;
India: Building six Scorpène submarines under Project 75, with the first, INS Kalvari, commissioned in 2017;
Brazil: Developing four modified Scorpène-class submarines, known as the Riachuelo class, with the first launched in 2018;
Indonesia: Recently acquired two Scorpène submarines and plans local production.
Expanding Argentina’s Naval Defense
In addition to the submarines, the four offshore patrol vessels add a significant element to Argentina’s maritime security strategy. These vessels will play a crucial role in enhancing coastal surveillance and protecting the country’s maritime resources.
Photo: Wikimedia / Flickr. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
