On August 11th, amidst the vibrant backdrop of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil’s President Luiz Inácio da Silva introduced the ambitious Growth Acceleration Program (PAC).
With Defence Minister José Mucio Monteiro present, the government outlined an investment of 53 billion reais (approximately US$11 billion) for defense, one of the program’s nine pillars.
The plan will see a total infusion of 1.7 trillion reais across all states.
The defense allocation aims to modernize the country’s defense capabilities, integrating advanced technologies and bolstering the national defense foundation.
Additionally, it will reinforce the Defense Industrial Base (BID), generating more jobs and revenue.
Currently, the defense sector contributes around 5% to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP), creating 2.9 million direct and indirect jobs, reports Infodefensa.
Key areas of the PAC’s defense axis include strategic projects for the Armed Forces, such as:
Navy
- Development and construction of nuclear and conventional submarines.
- Patrolling ship development, aiming for national waters inspection and monitoring.
- The Tamandaré Class Frigates project to enhance fleet renewal with technologically advanced ships.
Army
- Introduction of armored vehicles and subsystems for modernizing mechanized infantry.
- The ASTROS program focuses on missile and rocket artillery for extended range strategic fire support.
- The Integrated Border Monitoring System (SISFRON) will equip the army with the technology needed for border monitoring.
- The Army Aviation Program looks at modernizing the army’s aviation arm.
Air Force
- FX-2 initiative for reequipping the combat aircraft fleet.
- Development and acquisition of multi-mission transport aircraft like the KC-390.
- The HX-BR project for medium-sized helicopters to support combat and humanitarian missions.
This expansive program intends to strengthen Brazil’s defense capabilities, ensuring both domestic safety and international prominence.