Brazil has made significant strides in its naval modernization efforts, recently marking a pivotal moment with the delivery of the Tonelero submarine, the third Scorpène class vessel built domestically. The occasion was further highlighted by the launch of the fourth submarine, Almirante Karam, at the Itaguaà naval base.
These developments underscore Brazil’s ambition for greater technological independence, a goal rooted in the Submarine Development Program (PROSUB). The submarines are a product of a contract established in 2009 between Brazil and Naval Group, a French defense and naval contractor. The first submarine, Riachuelo, was launched in 2018 and was officially commissioned into service by the Brazilian Navy in 2022.
Naval Group has been instrumental in this program, with a focus on infrastructure development, technology transfer, and extensive training for local teams at Itaguaà Construções Navais (ICN). Brazilian workers, including welders, metal formers, plumbers, and electricians, received specialized training in France to acquire the necessary skills for modern submarine construction techniques. This training has empowered ICN to manage a wide range of operations from metal forming to system commissioning and testing.
Pierre Éric Pommellet, the CEO of Naval Group, emphasized the strategic nature of the collaboration, stating that the partnership aims not merely to deliver submarines but to cultivate a lasting technological and industrial legacy in Brazil.
Naval Group’s involvement extends beyond just submarine construction; it has played a crucial role in fostering a domestic naval-industrial base. This effort began with a comprehensive agreement in 2009 as part of a broader defense cooperation framework between France and Brazil, focusing on the complete transfer of submarine technology, joint shipyard construction, and rigorous training programs.
In a further expansion of their collaboration, Brazil and Naval Group are exploring plans for a conventionally armed nuclear-powered submarine. Recently, Brazil awarded new contracts to Naval Group valued at 526 million euros (approximately $610 million), aimed at enhancing its nuclear-submarine infrastructure and vital systems development under PROSUB.
Additionally, Naval Group has made strides to integrate Brazilian local suppliers into its global naval supply chain, positioning them not only for the current Scorpène program but also for future opportunities within the naval industry. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to develop a sustainable domestic defense industry ecosystem in Brazil.
