Arms transfers to Venezuela : a critical analysis of the acquisition process, 1962-1975

Abstract

Extensive research has been made regarding military expenditures and arms transfers in and to Latin America. Nevertheless, there was no available study focusing research on arms transfers from the perspective of a particular Latin American nation. The author analyzes Venezuela's arms transfers for 1962-1975 utilizing an "acquisition process" model. This arms acquisition model includes the initial considerations of having a defense establishment and needs for arms, the military requirement process, and the source selection process, the latter including the arms supplier policies as related to Venezuela during the intervening period. Venezuela, an oil producing nation, increased defense expenditures by 52% in 1974. New weapon systems were ordered by Venezuela in 1975 reflecting the availability of larger resources. Internal security missions, external projection, and a replacement pattern were the major factors influencing the Venezuelan arms requirement. A multi-polar international system and the U.S. arms transfer policy were reflected in Venezuela's diversification of arms sources. A resurgence of regional arms control seems to be a factor influencing future arms acquisition patterns.