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International exercise in Rio highlights new naval strategy and strengthens cooperation between Brazil and the United States in an increasingly challenging global scenario
The movement of one of the greatest symbols of global naval power on the Brazilian coast is already drawing attention and curiosity. The information was released by the website “AEROIN”, in a publication signed by Mateus Alves, providing details about the arrival of the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz in Brazil for an operation that promises to mark a new chapter in military cooperation between Western Hemisphere countries.
The nuclear aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN-68), considered the oldest in the world still in active service, is scheduled to arrive on the Brazilian coast on May 7. This movement is part of Operation Southern Seas 2026, conducted by the U.S. Navy’s 4th Fleet. Additionally, naval exercises will take place in Rio de Janeiro between May 11 and 14, bringing together forces from different nations.
In this context, it is important to highlight that Operation Southern Seas, held since 2007, now reaches its 11th edition. Over the years, the exercise has consolidated itself as one of the main maritime cooperation initiatives in the Western Hemisphere. Thus, the gathering brings together naval forces from about ten Latin American countries, including Brazil, with the aim of strengthening strategic partnerships, expanding interoperability between Navies, and improving coordinated responses to threats in the maritime environment.
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Brazilian participation bets on helicopters and submarine instead of fighter jets
Unlike previous editions, Brazil has opted for a distinct approach in this operation. Even without the use of fighter jets, the Brazilian Navy will actively participate in the training with the deployment of strategic naval and air-naval assets.
Among the confirmed assets are the Frigates Independência (F-44) and Defensora (F-41), as well as the Submarine Tikuna (S-34), which will play a fundamental role in naval warfare simulations. Additionally, two Westland AH-11B Super Lynx helicopters will be used to expand operational capacity during the exercises at sea.
Meanwhile, it is worth remembering that in the last edition of Southern Seas, Brazilian fixed-wing aircraft participated. On that occasion, A-4 Skyhawk fighter jets operated in conjunction with advanced U.S. Navy aircraft, such as the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet and the modern F-35C Lightning II, embarked on the aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN-73).
Therefore, the absence of fighter jets in this exercise does not represent a limitation, but rather a strategic choice focused on other types of operations, such as anti-submarine warfare, maritime surveillance, and integration between different platforms.
Joint exercises strengthen defense and regional integration at sea
During the operation, joint exercises at sea, known as PASSEX, are planned, along with technical exchange between military personnel and institutional visits. These activities, in turn, are fundamental for raising the training level of the forces involved and expanding their combined operational capacity.
At the same time, the passage of the USS Nimitz through other South American countries also reinforces the international dimension of the operation. During stops in Chile and Ecuador, the embarked air wing of the American aircraft carrier operated in conjunction with local combat aircraft, including the Super Tucano and the F-16 Falcon.
According to the Navy, all activities are planned jointly among the participating countries. In this way, the initiative strengthens not only regional cooperation but also the response capability in the face of common challenges in the maritime environment, such as security, defense, and strategic monitoring.
Finally, the realization of Operation Southern Seas 2026 in Brazil highlights the country’s increasingly relevant role in the international naval scenario. Even without the use of fighter jets in this edition, the operation with helicopters and a submarine demonstrates versatility and adaptation to the modern demands of naval warfare, consolidating the Brazilian Navy as a force prepared to operate on different fronts.
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