The Brazilian Navy started the week by announcing the purchase of the helicopter carrier HMS Ocean, formerly belonging to the United Kingdom, for approximately US$ 117 million.
The g of the contract was carried out by the General Director of Material of the Navy, iral Luiz Henrique Caroli, representing the Brazilian Navy (MB), together with the authorities of the British Ministry of Defence.
The incorporation of “Ocean” to MB will take place on June 29, and the ship's transfer process is expected to be completed by the end of July, with arrival in Brazil in August. Until then, the Brazilian crew will take courses at the Royal Navy, at companies that manufacture the equipment and undergo intensive training. The ship will also carry out maintenance and docking services at a British shipyard.
The vessel will be used in aerial operations with helicopters, amphibious operations with Marine Corps troops and Maritime Area Control missions to protect our Maritime Communications Lines, in addition to logistical activities, of a humanitarian nature, aid to natural disasters and in of peacekeeping operations.
The ship has the capacity to simultaneously operate up to seven aircraft on its flight deck, being able to use all types of helicopters belonging to the squadrons of the Brazilian Navy.
The HMS Ocean
Among the highlights of the equipment is its capacity to operate with any helicopter used by the Brazilian Navy, and many of the equipment used by the FAB, in case an integration is necessary.
In the hands of the United Kingdom, the equipment is capable of sailing with 800 officers on board, and having 18 helicopters on its deck. In addition, the 1995 ship is capable of operating planes such as the F-35B and V-22 Osprey, which have vertical takeoff capabilities.
An aircraft carrier is very important for Brazil to maintain its status as a defense power in the UN, and also for NATO operations, not all countries have an aircraft carrier.
Military personnel report that HMS Ocean is also capable of receiving McDonnell Douglas AV-8B Harrier II Plus aircraft, even with its length not exceeding 205 meters.
Propulsion is carried out through two diesel engines, with 12 cylinders arranged in a V, it can travel up to 13000 km at a speed of 33 km/h. For protection there are 4 DS30M Mk.2 30mm cannons, 3 CIWS Phalanx, 8 FN MAG and 4 Miniguns 7.62mm.
Modern radars ensure the flight safety of the helicopter carrier, as well as defense against submarine attacks.
