MONTEVIDEO, Uruguay - Despite optimistic claims by several military commanders, the Paraguayan government will not provide any additional funding for the 2015 defense budget, confirmed Army Commander, General Jorge Francisco Ramírez Gómez.
In recent years, the government has been allocating additional funds to the armed forces mid-year. However, this will not be the case next year. The General remains optimistic though, and will try to negotiate with Congress for extrabugetary funds in order to meet urgent needs.
The current FY15 budget only covers maintenance and basic operating costs for existing equipment. The military estimates that an additional $200 million is required to meet the needs of the military and update equipment for all three branches. The Air Force is in need of attack and surveillance aircraft and new 3D radars. The service recently acquired two Elta El/M-2106/NG 3-D tactical radars but needs additional units in order to provide adequate coverage.
The Navy has a standing requirement for new coastal patrol boats and the Army needs to rearm for its fight against the Paraguayan People's Army (EPP) guerilla group.
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