O submarino nuclear e a nova dimensão estratégica para o poder naval brasileiro

Abstract

The new strategic situation brought up by the future acquisition of a nuclear power attack submarine S(N) will greatly enhance BRAZILIAN ́S NAVY capability to defend the national interests and objective s at sea; will raise the threat level to an eventual aggressor; and enhance the deterrence in the South Atlantic. The advantages S(N) are so evident and significant that many States wish to have them also, but just few have the technical and economic means to built and operate them. Their superiority results from its peculiar characteristics, as high speed in immersion; hidden capability; and tridimensional mobility, as a mean of exploring the environment. These characteristics are translated as efficiency when operating in high ocean waters, and if well armed, has supremacy at the sea. It’s important the effort undertaken by the country, even when facing others priorities, in bu ilding a S(N), demonstrating it i s feasibility. As a bold enterprise it may face other States opposition. Thus, it’s a strategic importance the indigenous technical development brought by Brazilian Navy Nuclear Power Project. It’s divided in three program parts with the goal of a building a complete nuclear power propulsion system for a submarine: the nuclear fuel cycle, completed; the nuclear powerplant LAB; and the infrastructure program. So, we can praise the S(N) as an important vessel to b e employed by a sovereign State, that wish to h ave a bigger role in the International Concert of Nations.