Space Security and Economic Development in Argentina and Brazil

Abstract This chapter examines how Argentina and Brazil, like other wealthier aspiring space actors of the developing world, have employed a route to the development of space programs. This has frequently resulted in the same motivations and trajectories as the traditional space superpowers. Within Latin America, Argentina and Brazil have led the region both in the development of space technology and in creating various facets of space programs. But in both cases, military strategic concerns formed the justification that began and sustained government research and private investment in aerospace endeavors. The initial missile programs in both countries supported military goals but also formed the basis for the growth of private aerospace enterprise and collaboration with more developed space powers in space infrastructure development in satellites, launchers, and more advanced technology.