With three of a total of four ordered ships already under construction and sea trials underway, the Tamandaré frigate program is progressing
The Brazilian Navy, EMGEPRON, and Águas Azuis – a project company of TKMS, Embraer Defense & Security, and Atech – celebrated on August 8 the naming of the second Tamandaré-class frigate, named “F201 – Jerônimo de Albuquerque.” It is the second of a total of four frigates ordered in 2020 for around €2 billion. The Tamandaré-class frigate program (PFCT) aims to modernize and strengthen the operational capabilities of the Brazilian Navy with high-tech ships that feature local components.
Oliver Burkhard, CEO of TKMS, explains: „Our commitment in Brazil goes far beyond the delivery of ships. TKMS invests continuously and strategically in strengthening the local defense industry, technology transfer, and training qualified personnel, thereby contributing to the country’s national sovereignty and socioeconomic development. We are proud of the progress of the program and grateful for the close partnership with the Brazilian Navy and EMGEPRON.“
The ceremony took place at TKMS Estaleiro Brasil Sul in Itajaí, Santa Catarina. The ship’s sponsor was Lu Alckmin, wife of Brazilian Vice President Geraldo Alckmin. In addition to the Vice President, guests included Defense Minister José Mucio Monteiro, Navy Commander Admiral Marcos Sampaio Olsen, and representatives of civil and military authorities, the defense industry, and science and technology.
About the “F201 – Jerônimo de Albuquerque”
With a length of 107 meters, a displacement of 3,500 tons, and a maximum speed of 25 knots, the F201 frigate is equipped with state-of-the-art systems and high combat capability. The Combat Management System (CMS), developed in cooperation between Atech (Brazil) and the TKMS segment ATLAS ELEKTRONIK, intelligently integrates sensors and weapons, enabling an effective response to various types of threats.
First frigate begins sea trials
With three frigates currently under construction in Itajaí, TKMS Estaleiro Brasil Sul is consolidating its position as a strategic hub for the naval sector in South America and preparing for the next major step in the program.
The first frigate in the program, the F200 “Tamandaré”, which was launched in August 2024, will begin its first sea trials in the coming weeks. Over a period of eight days, its propulsion power, power generation, maneuverability, seaworthiness, and navigation, communication, and safety systems will be tested. After this phase, the ship will return to the shipyard, where the crew will be trained and final preparations will be made for the official delivery, which is scheduled for the end of 2025.
