Brazil to build two more conventional submarines and new 500-ton patrol vessels

The Brazilian Navy’s Submarine Development Program (Prosub) is advancing into its third phase, strategically focused on building two more conventional submarines, defining investment values for the construction of the nation’s first nuclear-propelled submarine by 2033, and developing a new patrol ship model with a displacement of 500 tons or more.

Prosub’s third phase also includes the development of indigenous nuclear production plant technology, a restricted critical technology.

Brazil’s first naval nuclear reactor will be based in Iperó, with a complex maintenance system and an exchange building for nuclear fuel located in Itaguaí.

The Navy is exploring the market for conventional S-BR submarines to equip South American neighbors, and delegations from Argentina and Colombia have already visited Itaguaí, indicating interest in future purchases.

An extension of the production contract to include two additional conventional submarines has been considered, in line with initial planning 15 years ago.

These two new submarines would have design, systems, and weaponry improvements built upon the experience gained with the first four Riachuelo-class S-BR submarines.

By 2025, the fourth conventional submarine will be delivered, committing R$40 billion  (US$8.34 billion) across various naval and construction units.

Prosub’s efforts over the last 15 years have included the delivery or planned delivery of four S-BR, a manufacturing shipyard for conventional submarines, and adjustments to the naval base for the future nuclear-powered submarine.

The production phase of conventional submarines is nearing completion, with planned deliveries through 2025.

In the next two years, negotiations will be essential to determine the contract model for the complex task of completing the nuclear-propelled submarine, involving companies such as Naval Group (France), Novonor, and Itaguaí Construções Navais (ICN).

The Navy is also investigating a domestic plan for developing and constructing patrol ships of at least 500 tons.

These would be a new design, intended to carry national radar systems, helicopters, or drones.

In spite of budget constraints, research and development efforts are ongoing, including a partnership with the University of São Paulo (USP) to create a new type of laser cannon and an autonomous surface vehicle with the Federal Fluminense University (UFF) for various naval missions.

These strategic moves underscore Brazil’s ambitions to enhance its naval capabilities, potentially positioning itself as a supplier to neighboring countries, and advancing its technological expertise in both conventional and nuclear maritime domains.

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