The Brazilian Armed Forces face critical challenges with the decline in their military spending, which is currently lower than that of South American neighbors such as Colombia and Chile, increasing risks to national security in a global context of uncertainty and high military investments per other nations.

At a time when the world prepares To face new global uncertainties, Brazil sees its military power in decline, putting the foundations of its security in question. The warning comes from senior officers of the Brazilian Armed Forces, who went to the National Congress to request more resources for defense, highlighting that the country is falling behind compared to its South American neighbors in terms of military investment.

During the presentation to Congress, the Minister of Defense, José Múcio, drew attention to a worrying fact: Brazil is among the South American countries that invest the least in defense, proportionally to its Gross Domestic Product (GDP). While nations such as Colombia, Ecuador, Uruguay, Chile and Bolivia surpass Brazil with investments exceeding 1,1% of GDP, Brazil allocates only around 1,1%, revealing a significant disparity that threatens national security.

To combat this deficiency, a Proposed Amendment to the Constitution (PEC 55223) is being considered

To combat this deficiency, a Proposed Amendment to the Constitution is being considered (PEC 55223), proposed by Senator Carlos Portinho. The PEC aims to increase national defense spending by 0,1% per year until reaching a minimum rate of 2% of GDP. This measure is seen as crucial for Brazil to be prepared to face present and future challenges, ensuring its sovereignty.

Despite concerns about low spending, some argue that the current defense budget is adequate

Despite concerns about low spending, some argue that the current defense budget is adequate for a country that is neither at war nor has imminent prospects of conflict. Guilherme Frizera, doctor in international relations from the University of Brasília, suggests that the current amount, which reached 126 billion this year, is sufficient considering Brazil's economic context. However, criticism arises when incidents such as the increase in tension on the border with Guyana are recalled, highlighting the lack of preparedness for emergencies.

Brazil is involved in several serious investment programs, such as the army's armored forces program

Brazil is involved in several serious investment programs, such as the army's armored forces program, the Navy's submarine development program and the Air Force's development of the F-39 Gripen fighter jets. Despite these advances, experts such as André Carvalho, a doctoral student in military sciences, point out that Brazil still needs to invest more, especially in air defense, so as not to fall behind countries with a smaller GDP, such as Venezuela, which has advanced anti-aircraft systems.

Brazil faces a critical moment in terms of national defense. With the possibility of increasing military spending through the proposed PEC, the country has the chance to reinforce its capabilities and ensure a respected place in the global security scenario. The decision to invest more in defense is not just a matter of maintaining parity with neighbors, but an urgent need to guarantee the protection and future of Brazil.