Brazilian Navy Seeks Chinese Drones Amid Growing Geopolitical Tensions.

On June 21, 2024, the Brazilian Naval Commission in Washington (CNBW), USA, issued Request for Quotation (RFQ) No. Q2024-0074 to procure two types of Chinese unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), specifically the Mavic 3 and Matrice models. Proposals are due by June 27.
Follow Army Recognition on Google News at this link

The Anshar is currently in advanced development stages and will be manufactured at Mac Jee's facilities in the Vale do Paraíba region within the interior of São Paulo state, Brazil (Artist rendering: Mac Jee)

The RFQ specifies the procurement of one DJI MAVIC 3 ENTERPRISE THERMAL COMBO and one DJI M30T PLUS COMBO, along with support kits. These drones, manufactured by SZ DJI Technology Co., Ltd., also known as Shenzhen DJI Sciences and Technologies Ltd. or simply DJI, were extensively used by both sides during Russia's invasion of Ukraine. In April this year, Ukraine's Ministry of Defense announced the acquisition of 4,000 DJI Mavic 3 drones to aid their military operations.

DJI, a global leader in the commercial and consumer UAV market, has expanded its presence in Brazil and Latin America. As of 2021, DJI held over 70% of the global market share, followed by competitors like Intel (4.1%) and Yuneec (3.6%).

The Brazilian Army actively incorporates DJI drones, such as the Mavic 2 Enterprise and Matrice 300 RTK models, into their operations, especially for Intelligence, Surveillance, Target Acquisition, and Reconnaissance (ISTAR) missions. These systems are valued for their continuous surveillance capabilities and ease of use under various operational conditions.

Additionally, the Brazilian defense group Mac Jee has developed the Anshar, an explosive drone designed for cost-effective target engagement with simple maintenance and operation. With a maximum speed of 170 m/s (612 km/h), a minimum sea-skimming altitude of 10 meters, a maximum altitude of 8,000 meters, a range extending to 100 kilometers, and an endurance of one hour, Anshar has a maximum take-off weight of 160 kg, a payload capacity of 20 kg, and a fuel weight of 46 kg.

Adding to its UAV capabilities, the Brazilian Army has commenced operational evaluation of its new NAURU 1000C drones, developed by the Brazilian company XMobots. This drone is a VTOL (Vertical Take-Off and Landing) UAV, designed for ISTAR (Intelligence, Surveillance, Target Acquisition, and Reconnaissance) missions. Weighing 150 kg, it features a hybrid propulsion system that combines a combustion engine with electric motors, enabling it to operate at altitudes up to 10,000 feet and sustain flight for up to 10 hours. Its advanced sensor system includes electro-optical, mid-wave infrared imaging, a laser rangefinder, and a laser pointer for precise target designation.

During an official visit to Brazil in May of this year, as part of Operation Southern Seas 2024, General Laura Richardson, Commander of the United States Southern Command (Southcom), expressed concerns about the growing influence of China in the region.