The newest ship in the Brazilian Navy’s fleet departed the UK this morning on a journey of more than 10,000 miles to South America.
Araguari is the third of three Amazonas Class ocean patrol vessels delivered to the Brazilian Navy by BAE Systems. She is designed for maritime security, as well as being able to support humanitarian relief and search-and-rescue operations.
Her two sister ships, Amazonas and Apa, were delivered by BAE Systems last year and have already begun operations in Brazil. They have recently played an important role in the security operation for Pope Francis’ visit to Brazil.
Nigel Stewart, commercial director at BAE Systems Maritime, said: “The success of this programme is testament to the strong relationship between BAE Systems and the Brazilian Navy as we worked in partnership to deliver these formidable ships. Araguari performed incredibly well through sea trials so we are immensely proud to see her sailing with her first crew. We’ve welcomed more than 250 members of the Brazilian Navy to the UK during this partnership and are delighted to play such an important role in growing Brazil’s naval capabilities.”
Araguari will make diplomatic visits in Europe and Africa before crossing the South Atlantic and receiving a warm welcome in Rio de Janeiro in September. After a brief stay, she will then proceed to her home port in the north eastern city of Natal.
The contract for the supply of the three ocean patrol vessels and ancillary support services also includes a manufacturing licence to enable further vessels of the same class to be constructed in Brazil, helping to support the country’s naval re-equipment programme and strengthen its maritime industrial capability.
The 90-metre Amazonas Class ships are based on the design of the Royal Navy’s River Class Offshore Patrol Vessels and are ideal for providing maritime security in Brazil’s territorial waters, including the protection of the country’s oil and gas platforms.
They are equipped with a 30mm cannon and two 25mm guns, as well as two rigid inflatable boats and a helicopter flight deck.
Apa and Araguari were built at BAE Systems’ Scotstoun shipyard and were completed in Portsmouth, while Amazonas was constructed in Portsmouth.
