Brazil has not had an attack helicopter fleet since retiring its Mil Mi-35M Hind-E attack helicopters. (Photo: FAB)
Brazil will be considering the possibility of purchasing attack helicopters as it looks to refresh its army aviation helicopter fleet through upgrades and new purchases.
Speaking at Defence iQ’s International Military Helicopter conference in London on 28 February, Col Marco Aureilo de Castro, chief of general staff for Brazilian Army Aviation Command, highlighted the geographic challenges the force faced in size, environment and inaccessibility.
The country, which measures 8.5 million square kilometres, features areas that can only be accessed by river or air. Col de Castro said inaccessibility had particularly affected operations in Amazonia where there have been plans for the establishment of another battalion.
Our news & analysis is now part of Defence Insight®
A Basic-level or higher Defence Insight subscription is now required to view this content.
As Europe confronts its most unstable security environment since the Cold War, defence planners recognise that advanced, dependable and flexible Uncrewed Aerial Systems (UAS) are central to a force that competes and prevails on today’s battlefield.
The country could be on the cusp of finalising an historic deal with Saab for up to 150 aircraft, with Belgium also increasing its number of donated F-16 aircraft to 53 with refreshed delivery timelines.
The USAF intends to conduct the second phase of the DRAGON programme from FY2026 to FY2030, while the future of the E3 replacement remains unknown.
Indonesia’s purchase of 12 drones with options for an additional 48 is the third deal in as many years between Indonesian and Turkish defence industries, bolstering the former’s plans to strengthen its own domestic production and defence industry.
The Brazilian Army is forecast to spend $279.15 million on UAVs from 2026, exceeding the Brazilian Navy’s $227.51 million forecast spend, although the naval force was an earlier adopter of the capability.
The medium airlift aircraft is swiftly becoming the top pick for an array of countries wishing to enhance their tactical transport capabilities.
Connect with us on socials
