Brazil has marked two significant milestones in its Submarine Development Program (PROSUB) with the delivery of the third Scorpène®-class submarine, Tonelero, and the launch of the fourth unit, Almirante Karam, at the Itaguaí naval base on 26 November 2025.
The Tonelero (S42) has now officially joined the Brazilian Navy, while Almirante Karam (S43) has begun its journey toward sea trials. Both submarines were built in Brazil at Itaguaí Construções Navais (ICN) under an extensive technology transfer agreement with Naval Group, marking another step forward in Brazil’s push for defence industrial autonomy.
Advancing Brazil’s Maritime Sovereignty
Naval Group Chairman and CEO Pierre Éric Pommellet highlighted that the partnership is focused on long-term strategic cooperation: building capabilities, not just submarines. The collaboration includes technology transfer, equipment supply, and training for Brazilian engineers and technicians in France, covering skills such as welding, metal forming, plumbing, and electrical integration.
This long-term collaboration enables ICN to master the full production cycle of submarine manufacturing from shaping steel plates to installing and testing onboard systems. Several Brazilian suppliers have also been qualified and integrated into Naval Group’s global supply chain, opening opportunities for future international projects.
Scorpène®: A Core Component of Brazil’s Modern Naval Power
The Scorpène®-class is a modern, versatile submarine designed for missions including anti-surface warfare, anti-submarine warfare, and special operations. Known for their acoustic stealth, endurance, and combat performance, these submarines significantly enhance Brazil’s undersea warfare capabilities.
The first two submarines Riachuelo (S40) and Humaitá (S41), entered service in 2022 and 2024, respectively. The addition of Tonelero and the launch of Almirante Karam demonstrate the momentum of PROSUB as Brazil moves toward a fully modernized submarine fleet.
A $10 Billion Modernization Drive: Inside the PROSUB Program
Launched in 2009, PROSUB aims to equip Brazil with a modern, self-sustaining submarine force by commissioning four diesel-electric attack submarines (SSKs) and one nuclear-powered attack submarine (SSN) by 2034.
In late 2009, Brazil signed detailed contracts with DCNS covering:
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Construction assistance and design transfer
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Technology transfer for local submarine manufacturing
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Development partnership for Brazil’s first nuclear-powered submarine
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Construction of a new shipyard and naval base at Itaguaí
Local Construction and Industrial Capability Building
Under PROSUB’s structure:
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The first submarine was partly built in France, then integrated in Brazil.
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All subsequent submarines, including Tonelero and Almirante Karam are being constructed entirely in Brazil at ICN.
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The program has established a full national ecosystem for submarine design, welding, hull construction, systems integration, and sea trials.
This local capacity allows Brazil to transition from an importer to a producer of sophisticated naval platforms.
