The Ministry of National Defense confirmed that the first batch of weapons acquired from the United States was received on June 30 as part of the modernization process of the Guatemalan Army.
According to the institution, the weapons will arrive in two deliveries and the last is scheduled between September and October 2026. He added that, for reasons of national security, he cannot reveal the number of weapons purchased.
He commented that the weapons are for the exclusive use of the Army and will not be destined for another ministry or institution.
“We have already been receiving some weapons because we are receiving them in batches. We are going to receive another one today—June 30—,” said Henry Sáenz, Minister of National Defense, after the formal ceremony by the Army Day.
The official indicated that the purchase includes M4 rifles, machine guns, grenade launchers and equipment for night operations.
“The first batch of completely new M4 weapons, machine guns and grenade launchers. The same weapons used by the United States forces and equipment for night operations. That is what we are doing for the three forces,” he said.
Sáenz recalled that Guatemala regained access to the purchase of US military equipment after the restriction that was in force for 47 years was lifted.
“Why did they raise it? Because we are respectful of human rights and we are an Army that seeks democracy. That has certified us so that now we can buy weapons,” he expressed.
In addition to weapons, the minister explained that the strengthening of military capabilities includes the acquisition of aircraft and vessels.
“We are strengthening the Air Force to be able to serve the people of Guatemala. We are buying planes to transport personnel because we know that we are a country with natural threats. We are buying multi-mission planes that help us evacuate needed personnel or make airlifts to reduce disasters,” he indicated.
He added that aircraft were also acquired to fight forest fires.
“We are also purchasing aircraft to be able to mitigate or suppress fires. Those are the capabilities that we are recovering for service and support to the nation,” he said.
As for the National Defense Navy, he noted that they purchased Island-type patrol boats to reinforce maritime surveillance.
“Also, at the sea force level, we are purchasing Island-type patrol vessels that will serve to better protect territorial waters and improve interdiction, keeping our coastlines safe,” he stated.
The minister indicated that the aircraft will be delivered between July and September, while the patrol ships will arrive next year.