Venezuela hints at AEW&C procurement despite economic woes
Paralysed by a moribund economy and mired in a long-running political crisis, Venezuela faces unprecedented problems in terms of maintaining its military might.
Future procurement plans are, in effect, stymied by the ongoing economic crisis. However, there remains the possibility (without official confirmation) that Venezuela will seek to acquire an AEW&C capability for the first time.
The most likely source would be China (COMAC KJ-500) or Russia (Beriev A-50E), given the close diplomatic, economic and military ties these countries have with the Venezuelan regime.
The A-50E is highly capable but expensive to acquire and operate.
Our news & analysis is now part of Defence Insight®
A Basic-level or higher Defence Insight subscription is now required to view this content.
More from Air Warfare
-
![Peru’s air combat modernisation effort opens up $2.5 billion market opportunity]()
Peru’s air combat modernisation effort opens up $2.5 billion market opportunity
The latest purchase of F-16V combat aircraft comes as the country presses ahead with its long-held plans to modernise its air combat capabilities and invest in the replacement of ageing Russian aircraft.
-
![Optimism remains for GCAP and FCAS future despite programme stumbling blocks]()
Optimism remains for GCAP and FCAS future despite programme stumbling blocks
Both sixth-generation combat aircraft programmes are still awaiting major key decisions from respective governments with regards to funding or future direction, but industry and governmental officials remain optimistic of progress going forward.
-
![SOF Week 2026: US Army to conduct trials with Mountain Horse’s containerised drone launcher]()
SOF Week 2026: US Army to conduct trials with Mountain Horse’s containerised drone launcher
The Mountain Horse Containerised Autonomous Drone Delivery System has been engineered for dispersed, forward UAV operations. It can store, protect, charge, launch and recover drones.
-
![British Army's Project Nyx progress reflects MoD investment in autonomous system]()
British Army's Project Nyx progress reflects MoD investment in autonomous system
The UK MoD said it would narrow down the competitors from four to two later in the year, with those selected going on to develop the prototype drone that will operate as loyal wingman to the British Army’s Apache AH-64E helicopters.
-
![UH-60M Black Hawk: export demand underpins $13 billion market opportunity]()
UH-60M Black Hawk: export demand underpins $13 billion market opportunity
The UH-60M is the latest variant of the UH-60, a workhorse multirole helicopter that continues to attract further orders from across the globe. With further modernisation upgrades underway, the platform is expected to remain in operation until 2050.
