British authority discussed opportunities for cooperation, exchange of experience in sensitive areas, new technologies and exchanges with the Royal Marines
By First Lieutenant (RM2-T) Danielle Veras
The UK Minister of State for Defense in the House of Lords, Lord Vernon Rodney Coaker, visited the Marine Corps (CFN – Corpo de Fuzileiros Navais – Marinha do Brasil) on Friday (6) at the São José Fortress on Cobras Island. The main purpose of the visit was to strengthen the partnership between Brazil and the United Kingdom, which will celebrate 200 years of diplomatic relations in 2025.
The UK delegation was received by the Commandant General of the Marine Corps, Admiral Carlos Chagas Vianna Braga, accompanied by admirals from the sector. On the occasion, Lord Coaker spoke about the review of the UK’s defense strategy (Strategic Defence Review-2024), which was accompanied by a significant increase in investment, with a focus on threats and better preparation for the future. In this context, he highlighted the continued relevance of the Royal Marines.
During the working meeting, various topics were discussed, with an emphasis on the possibilities for closer relations and exchanges between the CFN and the Royal Marines, including doctrinal aspects, training and technologies in sensitive areas, such as autonomous systems and artificial intelligence.
The minister emphasized that the CFN is an excellent partner for the Royal Marines, highlighting the diversified capabilities, the professionalism of the troops, their readiness for deployment and Brazil’s strategic objectives in relation to global stability and security, as well as revealing the admiration of UK troops for the CFN’s expertise, especially in the field of riverine operations.
“Contemporary threats, such as piracy and international crime, coupled with advances in artificial intelligence and autonomous systems, make it even more relevant to work together with regional partners to promote global security and stability, always in compliance with international norms and laws.
In this way, the Marines present themselves as an important partner for the Royal Marines,” said the Minister. Admiral Carlos Chagas commented that the CFN is very interested in increasing cooperation with the Royal Marines, expanding the exchange of knowledge, interoperability and developing themes that are relevant to both Forces.
“We recently held the CFN’s IV Symposium and were attended by Commanders General from ten countries. One of the main objectives was to share experiences in order to help restructure the CFN to respond to the various demands of a rapidly changing world,” said the Admiral.