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TKMS and Embraer sign Memorandum of Understanding with the Brazilian Ministry of Defense to expand the Tamandaré Class Frigates Program

  • The Memorandum establishes the basis for the construction of four additional vessels and the strengthening of Brazil’s naval capabilities.
  • TKMS also celebrated the commissioning of the first Tamandaré Frigate into the Brazilian Navy Fleet. 
  • The Initiative reinforces the strategic cooperation between Brazil and Germany in the naval defense sector.

Rio de Janeiro, April 24, 2026 – TKMS signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Ministry of Defense of Brazil and Embraer with a view to the construction of a second batch of four Tamandaré Class frigates. 

The signing took place during a Brazilian Navy ceremony marking the commissioning of the Tamandaré frigate (F200), the first vessel of the Tamandaré Class Frigates Program (PFCT), into the Brazilian fleet, attended by TKMS CEO Oliver Burkhard, other high-ranking representatives from TKMS and participating companies, as well as from the Brazilian Navy and government, including Admiral Marcos Sampaio Olsen, Commander of the Brazilian Navy.

The PFCT is the most modern and innovative naval project ever developed in Brazil. The construction of the F200 was completed on schedule in less than four years, three more frigates will be delivered to the Brazilian Navy by 2029. 

The MoU now establishes the basis for the continuation and expansion of the Tamandaré Class Frigates Program (PFCT), with a focus on strengthening the operational capabilities of the Brazilian Navy and the country’s defense industrial base.

Oliver Burkhard, CEO of TKMS: “Advancing with a new batch of frigates is essential to sustain critical capabilities and preserve the knowledge developed through technology transfer under the Tamandaré Program. This MoU also reflects the strong cooperation between Brazil and Germany and TKMS’s longterm commitment to Brazil.” 

The agreement is aligned with the Letter of Intent signed this week by the governments of Brazil and Germany at the Hannover Messe to initiate negotiations for a new batch. The frigates will contribute to the renewal of Brazil’s naval fleet and offer export potential, with benefits for both countries. 

The second batch further expands the industrial and socioeconomic impact of the PFCT in Brazil. In addition to its strategic role in defense, the program involves around 1,000 Brazilian companies across its supply chain, strengthening local industry, fostering technological development, and generating approximately BRL 5 billion in local content, as well as around BRL 500 million in taxes. 

Currently, approximately 2,000 professionals are directly involved in the construction of the vessels. Including indirect and induced effects, the program is expected to generate around 23,000 jobs, reflecting its strong multiplier effect on the economy.

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