Overview
- Operating de facto before a mid-December swearing-in, Carlos Presti secured key appointments with Gen. Óscar Zarich to lead the Army and Vice Adm. Marcelo Dalle Nogare at the Joint Chiefs, with Clarín also reporting Vice Adm. Juan Carlos Romay to head the Navy.
- He plans to divide the IOSFA health system into separate institutions for military and police personnel and to launch a comprehensive audit of its finances and administration with Security minister-designate Alejandra Monteoliva.
- The reequipment agenda advances as the first F‑16s arrive, France’s Naval Group courts a 2–3 submarine sale, and a US$63 million Leonardo AW109SP helicopter deal for the Navy awaits a presidential decree, with additional rifle purchases discussed with Israel.
- Tight budgets will force prioritization with the Economy Ministry, while analysts highlight pressure to shore up salaries, training and IOSFA and to bring clearer rules to the use of the FONDEF modernization fund.
- Presti’s military status is in dispute, with BAE reporting he will request ‘pase a disponibilidad’ to retain rank for up to six months and Clarín reporting he will remain on active duty while serving as minister.