Bush Approves Controversial F-16 Sale to Chile

 
The Council for a Livable World publishes The Arms Trade Insider, a publication which provides background information and insightful analysis on a broad range of global arms trade issues. The February issue featured a commentary on President Bush's decision to sell a dozen F-16 fighter jets worth $600 million to Chile.

Several US senators have complained that "the level of technology being discussed in this instance is unnecessary and potentially de-stabilizing," arguing that such advanced weaponry far exceeds Chile's defense needs. Further doubts may be raised by Chile's neighbors, who may question Chile's motives for acquiring the F-16s. According to the authors, the planes will cost the country "over 90% of its military acquisition budget over the next 10 years and divert spending from other military needs."

Some defense contractors argue that if the US does not sell jets to Chile, then other countries will. Others cite Chile's right to purchase weapons to defend itself and the responsibility of the United States to support its allies.

The authors of this commentary see a greater danger in this deal with Chile, fearing that regional security in the United States' "back yard" will be further scrutinized. Instead of selling the most advanced weaponry to Chile, they suggest providing the Chileans with "an excellent air power capability commensurate with their needs while keeping the lid on tensions and military spending."

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