The operation can take place for more than 70 days (submarine autonomy time). Furthermore, the submarine is capable of going deeper than 250 meters. It can accommodate a crew of up to 35 people, 8 officers and 27 enlisted personnel.
It is capable of firing heavy torpedoes, anti-ship missiles and mines. The weapons were also acquired from the French defense industry.
The name refers to the Navy’s main action during the Silver War. It was inspired by a maneuver that began in December 1851 in which the ships of the Brazilian squadron crossed the Tonelero Pass under heavy fire, transporting troops that disembarked in the Argentine city of Diamante after overcoming enemy fortifications and artillery batteries.
It is part of a program signed in partnership with France. The submarine is manufactured in national territory, but with technology from the European country.
What is it for?
The Tonelero “will contribute to the defense of the Homeland and the Blue Amazon”, according to the Navy. Brazil’s coastal area has a vast economic zone through which more than 95% of foreign trade passes and from where around 95% of oil is extracted.
