In the context of a new diplomatic incident between Colombia and Israel, Colombian President Gustavo Petro announced through his social media channels that the country is suspending all purchases of military equipment from Israeli companies. While the statements are recent, the impact of such a decision would be significant for the Colombian Armed Forces, which count Israel as one of their main suppliers of equipment and weaponry, as well as negotiate the acquisition of new air defense and artillery systems.
The decision of the Colombian president stems from the recent attack on Palestinian civilians in the Gaza Strip by the Israel Defense Forces, while they were awaiting humanitarian aid to alleviate the difficult situation caused by the conflict sparked by the terrorist attack on October 7th. However, Gustavo Petro’s decision is preceded by previous statements, both from him and the Israeli government, which have led to a cooling and distancing in diplomatic relations between the two countries.
As of today, it is difficult to gauge the impact that the president’s decision will have on the Colombian Armed Forces. What is clear is that Israel is one of the main suppliers of military equipment used to support and maintain Colombian fighter jets, helicopters, and other military equipment. One emblematic case is that of the Kfir fighter-bombers, for which their replacement has not yet been defined, and they will remain operational for longer, requiring Israeli assistance for this to happen.
Other issues arise for the immediate future. A few months ago, the Colombian Army confirmed the selection of the 155mm self-propelled howitzer ATMOS from Elbit Systems. The investment amount, reported through process No. 21-2022 MDN-EJEC extracted from SECOP, encompasses an investment of over USD 100,000,000.00 for the incorporation of these new and modern equipment.
Efforts for the acquisition of BARAK MX air defense systems from Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) should also be noted, involving an investment of USD 131,200,000. Ongoing negotiations anticipated that the first systems would be delivered to the Colombian Armed Forces in the year 2026.
*Photographs used for illustrative purposes.
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