I’ve noticed defense ventures is a growing field and so is asset-based financing for commercial aviation. I was wondering how feasible would it be for a firm like Fortress to lease warfighter aircraft to allied forces? Feel like the downside protection would be significant but debtor repossession would be difficult. Just thought this would be a cool idea where the private sector could make defense more efficient.
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Based on the WSO Dataset, the concept of asset-based financing in the defense sector, particularly for leasing warfighter aircraft to allied forces, is indeed an intriguing idea. Here are some key points to consider:
Market Viability: The defense sector has seen a growing interest in private investment, especially in areas like defense technology and infrastructure. Leasing aircraft could potentially open a new market segment for financial firms.
Risk Assessment: While the downside protection might seem significant due to the high value and demand for military assets, the risks involved are also substantial. These include geopolitical risks, changes in government defense policies, and the complexities of international law.
Repossession Challenges: You correctly pointed out that debtor repossession would be challenging. In the event of a default, physically repossessing an aircraft from a sovereign nation could lead to diplomatic conflicts and legal challenges.
Regulatory and Ethical Considerations: Leasing military equipment involves stringent regulatory scrutiny. Additionally, there are ethical considerations regarding the leasing of arms and military equipment, which could affect the firm's reputation and compliance requirements.
Financial Structuring: The structure of such deals would need to be robust, possibly involving guarantees or insurance to mitigate the risks of default or geopolitical instability.
This idea, while innovative, would require careful consideration of the legal, ethical, and financial implications. It represents a complex intersection of finance and international defense policy.
Sources: Any Hedge funds that specialize in warfare?, Idea Generation... and Why Wall Street Sucks at It, How can we do better?, Marine Officer/Aviator Ask Me Anything, What are the best investments we can make Before/During the war between Russia and NATO? Share your knowledge!
Assuming you’re talking about the US here…. Can’t imagine a defense company is leasing a war weapon to a de facto US military company. Probably a short list of pre approved purchasers to begin with. Even then, i’m sure these purchasers are US subsidized. In other words, your counterparty risk is basically the government youre dealing with & if the gov’t is a AA+/AAA sov i doubt you have releasing/repossession risk
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