Brazilian Navy Fleet Inventory 🇧🇷

The Brazilian Navy, or "Marinha do Brasil," is the naval service branch of the Brazilian Armed Forces and one of the largest navies in the Americas. Its primary missions include safeguarding Brazil's vast maritime interests, which encompass a coastline stretching over 7,000 kilometers, as well as its exclusive economic zone that is rich in natural resources. The navy is also responsible for riverine and littoral security given Brazil's extensive river network.

The surface fleet consists of a range of frigates, corvettes, and patrol vessels. The Niterói-class frigates, although aging, remain the primary surface combatants. These ships are complemented by the newer Barroso-class and Tamandaré-class corvettes that are designed for multirole capabilities. These surface vessels are generally equipped for anti-ship, anti-air, and anti-submarine warfare, albeit with varying degrees of technological sophistication.

Brazil has been actively modernizing its submarine fleet, with the highlight being the Scorpène-class diesel-electric submarines built in collaboration with France. These are expected to significantly bolster Brazil's underwater capabilities. Additionally, the development of the Álvaro Alberto, Brazil's first nuclear-powered submarine, symbolizes the navy's long-term ambitions for blue-water capabilities and strategic deterrence. This project is part of the PROSUB program aimed at enhancing Brazil's naval construction capabilities and establishing a domestic submarine industrial base.

In terms of aviation and amphibious capabilities, the Brazilian Navy operates several helicopter models for roles ranging from anti-submarine warfare to utility tasks. The navy also possesses an amphibious assault ship, the Atlântico, which was formerly a UK Royal Navy vessel. This ship has significantly boosted Brazil's power projection and humanitarian aid capabilities.

Budgetary constraints and political considerations have slowed some modernization efforts, impacting the pace at which older platforms are being replaced or upgraded. Furthermore, while Brazil has developed a domestic shipbuilding industry, which has contributed to certain naval projects, it still relies considerably on international partnerships for more advanced systems and platforms.

Key facts

Number of active ships by category