BAE Systems seeks partnership in Brazil's surface fleet procurement

BAE Systems has outlined proposals to rebuild major elements of Brazil's surface fleet – from offshore patrol vessels (OPVs) to aircraft carriers – via technology transfer partnerships with a local shipyard and associated industries.

The Brazilian Navy (Marinha do Brasil – MB) is being invited to play a pivotal role in design and development activities for the UK-based company's new frigate-sized escort, known as the Global Combat Ship. This export-orientated design will also form the basis of the UK Royal Navy's (RN's) Type 26 future frigate, which is scheduled to enter service from 2021.

Other offerings include a 90 m OPV design based on the RN's River class (with the addition of a flight deck and hangar); an improved Wave-class fleet replenishment tanker (similar to vessels operated by the UK Royal Fleet Auxiliary); and support for Brazil's naval combat system using technologies derived from the RN's CMS-1 combat management system and Artisan 3D medium-range radar. Collaboration could ultimately extend to aircraft carrier designs, BAE Systems said.

The company unveiled its proposals on 14 September as government ministers from both countries signed a Defence Co-operation Treaty on board the RN amphibious assault ship HMS Ocean, which is on a week-long visit to Rio de Janeiro.

In a statement, BAE Systems said that its proposal was "designed to meet the objectives set out in Brazil's National Strategy of Defence to enhance its indigenous industrial capability by enabling Brazil to develop an independent, sustainable naval shipbuilding and through-life maritime support capability".