Military Procurement and Regional Security in Southeast Asia

Abstract

Weapons procurement in Southeast Asia has undergone three transformations: initially all countries in the region relied on armaments provided through foreign military assistance; later as aid declined many were able to acquire large quantities of second-hand equipment; since the mid-1980s these countries have purchased limited quantities of highly advanced weapon systems at market prices. Strategic considerations played a secondary role in this process, which was influenced more by economics and international alignments. Although the level of Southeast Asian arms transfers consistently has been underestimated, a review of regional procurement policies shows that all Southeast Asian countries will find it increasingly difficult to maintain the size of their armed forces at present rates of spending. Three alternative military procurement options are examined: returning to reliance on second-hand weaponry from Europe, increased reliance on domestic arms production, and regional arms control to reduce military requirements. None of these options are likely to replace present procurement practices, suggesting that Southeast Asian armed forces will face serious procurement problems in the foreseeable future.