Brazil Launches Final Skorpène-BR and Commissions Tonelero, Pivoting to Nuclear Submarine Build

Overview

• The Brazilian Navy launched the Almirante Karan, the fourth and last conventional submarine built under Prosub, and formally transferred the Tonelero to operational service.
• With the conventional series complete, the Itaguaí shipyard begins work on the nuclear-powered Álvaro Alberto, with initial construction focused on the stern and a projected entry into service in 2034.
• Navy nuclear development chief Admiral Alexandre Rabello de Faria described the effort as a transition phase that must adhere to national nuclear licensing requirements and supporting infrastructure build-out.
• Contracts published in August total €526.4 million with Naval Group for additional systems and special engineering, including electromechanical assembly for LABGENE’s controlled auxiliary building.
• Itaguaí Construções Navais, a Novonor–Naval Group venture (59%–41%), anchors Brazil’s submarine industrial base, and executives note regional interest in future orders though no export deals are in place.