February 21, 2007: Venezuela is negotiating with Russia to buy nine diesel-electric submarines from Russia, for about $335 million each. That would nearly double the $3.4 billion in weapons Venezuela has already bought from Russia. Venezuela wants the subs in order to defend itself from American attack. U.S. aircraft carriers would be a crucial part of any American attack force. The U.S. has denied any intention of attacking, but no matter.
Venezuela already has two 1970s era German Type 209 subs. The Russians would provide much more modern Kilo class boats. Iran, China and several other nations, already use the Kilo. Venezuela has also approached France and Germany, but these nations are reluctant to pursue such an offer. Mainly because Venezuela is seen squandering billions on weapons it doesn't need, while domestic needs are ignored. Thus, it's not the prospect of supplying weapons for use against the United States navy that discourages the French and German sub builders, but the fear of being seen as less than politically correct regarding the way Venezuela is being misgoverned
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