Brazil aims to invest 52.8 billion reals (approximately U.S. $10.6 billion) towards the research, development, and equipment acquisition for its military. This effort includes an intent to nearly double its Gripen fighter fleet and sponsor projects by Embraer for aerial refueling aircraft. The decision is a part of the Growth Acceleration Program (PAC), established by President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, and the plan is set to span several years, focusing significantly on defense enhancement.
Key Points:
- Brazil’s investment of 52.8 billion reals is part of the Growth Acceleration Program, initiated by President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, with a broader plan to spend 1.7 trillion reals, emphasizing defense.
- The investment will contribute to equipping the Armed Forces with advanced technologies, strengthening national defense, and improving border monitoring.
- The Brazilian Air Force plans to produce and acquire 34 F-39 Gripen fighters, thereby nearly doubling its existing fleet.
- Brazil had previously signed a contract with Swedish manufacturer Saab in 2014 for the purchase of 36 Gripen fighters, and by 2022, an additional four fighters were added to the deal.
- The Brazilian government also intends to buy nine C-390 Millennium planes from Embraer and plans to modify two Airbus A330 aircraft for aeromedical and aerial refueling purposes.
