The order, signed off by Lopes, states that the weapon systems are intended for “anti-aircraft protection of military forces and the protection of sensitive points and areas, and high-visibility events”.
The weapons will be purchased through the NATO procurement agency (NSPA) at a cost of “up to a maximum of €32 million”, to be paid in stages by 2026.
In 2017, purchases are expected to come to a total of €500,000 and the following year €4 million.
In a statement, accessed by Lusa News Agency, the Defence Minister justifies the purchase of the arms with the need to build the Protection and Survival Capacity of the Forces.
The contract with the NATO Support Procurement Agency includes eight weapon terminals of the Anti-aircraft Artillery Command and Control System, two radars, eight missile systems and eight tactical armoured vehicles to transport them.
The purchase of these weapons systems “will also fill gaps in low and very low altitude anti-aircraft protection”, which the minister said is an “essential and relevant asset in the National Air Defence System.”
Throughout the purchase process, Portugal will be represented by the Chief of Staff of the Army, General Rovisco Duarte.