The Paraguayan government has fast-tracked a sweeping modernization of its Armed Forces through cooperation agreements with the United States. The plan includes the purchase of armored tactical vehicles, military equipment, and technology for the Army, along with a doctrinal shift focused on combating organized crime and groups designated as terrorist organizations.
Army Commander General Manuel Rodríguez confirmed that the final acquisition costs are still to be determined on U.S. soil but assured that Paraguay will have access to preferential pricing under military cooperation programs. “The prices still need to be set in the United States, but they will come at a lower percentage,” he explained.
The requests were formalized through the system known as a Letter of Request (LOR). The first was submitted by the Ministry of National Defense in August 2025 under the Excess Defense Articles (EDA) program for the acquisition of 20 MRAP tactical vehicles—mine-resistant, ambush-protected armored carriers. They are expected to arrive in the country by mid-2027.
In February 2026, the government submitted a new request to purchase 50 multi-purpose tactical vehicles, along with technological and military equipment to enhance the operational capability of the ground force. This acquisition process is expected to take approximately two years.
The project also envisions a doctrinal shift within the Paraguayan Army. With support from the U.S. Military Group in Paraguay, counterterrorism companies will be established within the existing infantry divisions, aiming to train the force to confront criminal organizations and transnational threats.
The memorandum of understanding between the two countries was enacted by President Santiago Peña on May 22. The program represents one of the most significant military modernization efforts in recent years and unfolds against a regional backdrop marked by the strengthening of security strategies and international defense cooperation. The agreement also provides for future donations of vessels and equipment to the Paraguayan Navy.