The Tamandaré frigate (F200), built at the TKMS shipyard in Itajaí (SC) in less than four years, has been officially commissioned into the Brazilian Fleet in a ceremony held by the Brazilian Navy, marking the start of its operational service. This is the first vessel of the Tamandaré-class Frigates Program (PFCT), the most modern and innovative naval project ever developed in Brazil.
TKMS press release
The PFCT is led by the Brazilian Navy, managed by EMGEPRON (Naval Projects Management Company), and executed by Águas Azuis, a special purpose entity formed by TKMS, Embraer, and Atech. The ceremony was attended by TKMS CEO Oliver Burkhard, other high-ranking representatives from TKMS and participating companies, as well as from the Brazilian Navy and government, including Admiral Marcos Sampaio Olsen, Commander of the Brazilian Navy.
“We have been partners of the Brazilian Navy since the 1980s, when we jointly developed the successful Tupi-class submarines. The commissioning of the Tamandaré frigate now represents a new milestone in this journey, and TKMS stands ready to continue it with a second batch of four additional ships. The signing of a Memorandum of Understanding in this regard is a strong sign of the deep trust between us and Brazil,” said Oliver Burkhard, CEO of TKMS. “The project demonstrates how structured international cooperation can enhance strategic capabilities while strengthening the local industrial base.”
The Tamandaré-class frigates are based on the MEKO A-100 platform, developed by TKMS and recognized for its modularity, operational flexibility, and ability to adapt to different mission scenarios. Equipped with state-of-theart combat systems, sensors, and weaponry, the F200 sets a new technological and operational benchmark for the Brazilian Navy. With its delivery, Brazil joins a group of 18 navies worldwide that operate surface vessels supplied by TKMS. In addition to the F200, three more frigates will be delivered to the Brazilian Navy by 2029.
Paulo Alvarenga, CEO of TKMS Brazil: “The Tamandaré Class Frigates Program is a concrete example of technology transfer, strengthening of the defense industrial base, and value creation for the country. We are proud to contribute to enhancing the operational capabilities of the Brazilian Navy.”
In addition to its strategic impact on defense, the PFCT plays a significant role in Brazil’s economic and technological development. The program involves approximately 1,000 Brazilian companies throughout its supply chain. Currently, around 2,000 professionals are directly involved in the construction of the vessels. The project’s multiplier effect is estimated at approximately 6,000 indirect jobs and 15,000 induced jobs, totaling around 23,000 jobs.
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