Operation off the coast of Rio de Janeiro evaluates the effectiveness of the prototype and improves the training of the naval and aerial forces
By First Lieutenant (T) Tatiane Bispo
Between September 11 and 15, the Brazilian Navy (MB) conducted operation “Weapons Launch IV/2024” in the maritime area south of Cabo Frio, in Rio de Janeiro. The main objective of this activity was to test the effectiveness of the National Anti-Ship Surface Missile (MANSUP) and improve the training of the Fleet’s naval and aerial resources.
The MANSUP, currently in the advanced testing phase, is a prototype under development designed to strengthen the lethality of the Naval Force. This phase is important, as it involves rigorous evaluations to ensure that the missile meets the operational and precision requirements needed for its future use. With a total of six planned stages, MANSUP’s development aims to guarantee optimum performance before its deployment.
The operation began with the towing of a target from the Rio de Janeiro Naval Base (BNRJ) to the test area. The following day, the frigates “Rademaker” and “Independência” left BNRJ, with the “Independência” being the flagship of the operations. The “Rademaker” frigate was responsible for launching the MANSUP, firing at the designated target and helping to evaluate the system.
In addition to the MANSUP launch, the operation included a wide variety of weapons firing. The “Independencia” frigate launched ASPIDE surface-to-air missiles, while the SH-16 “Seahawk” aircraft fired PENGUIN surface-to-air missiles.
The AF-1 “Skyhawk” fighters dropped BGB-82 bombs and fired 20mm machine guns; the AH-11B “Super Lynx” helicopter dropped MK-9 bombs and fired .50 machine guns; and the “Independencia” frigate fired 4.5-inch and 40mm cannons.
The Commander of the Operation Task Group, also Commander of the Fleet’s 2nd Division, Rear Admiral Jorge José de Moraes Rulff, highlighted the importance of the mission. “This operation allows us to increase the level of training of our Fleet’s naval and air forces. The launch of MANSUP is a significant step in the development of a very important project for MB.”
The exercise also included the participation of the Multipurpose Dock Ship “Bahia”, the Corvette “Caboclo”, the submarine “Tikuna”, the Coastal Support Notice “Almirante Hess” and a detachment of Combat Divers. Each of these units played essential roles in coordinating and executing the operations, ensuring the success and effectiveness of the exercise. Rear Admiral Rulff emphasized that “the activities carried out were planned in accordance with our strategic guidelines, such as the National Defense Strategy, the Maritime Defense Strategy and the Navy’s Strategic Plan, which guide the necessary capabilities and basic tasks of the Naval Power.”
Source: Agência Marinha de Notícias