ABSTRACT
Proliferation in Latin America is two-fold: the all-familiar proliferation which involves the transfer of conventional weaponry, much of it quite sophisticated, and the diffusion of military technology, both conventional and nuclear. The proliferation of military technology involves the development of national armament production as well as the development of indigenous nuclear energy programs that, while ostensibly for peaceful purposes, have at least partial military application with results that are far from predictable. Brazil has even begun to export nationally produced arms in substantial quantities. Also impressive is the growth of national nuclear power industries, particularly those of Argentina and Brazil with attendant proliferation of nuclear technology. Any effective strategy for controlling proliferation of armaments and technology in Latin America must consider both conventional and nuclear proliferation in tandem. Greater attention has been paid to nuclear technology proliferation in Latin America and more success has achieved in controlling it than in the case of the conventional arms buildup in the region.
