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Missions In Countries Such As Italy, United States, United Arab Emirates, and Spain Involved Over 300 Military Personnel and Family Members, Generating Debates on Military Diplomacy and Use of Public Resources
The Brazilian Armed Forces have already spent R$ 22 million on international travel in 2025, according to a survey published by Revista Oeste based on official information. Among the general officers — admirals, brigade generals, and army generals — the total reaches R$ 2 million. The trips included institutional visits, administrative inspections, and military exchanges with partner nations.
Among the most costly cases, Admiral André Mendes spent R$ 56.8 thousand on tickets for missions in the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia. Meanwhile, Army General Francisco Montenegro participated in exchanges in Poland and Spain, with total expenses of R$ 63 thousand, of which R$ 41.6 thousand was just for airfare.
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Trips to Washington and Inspections in the United States
The investigation also shows that Admiral Arthur Corrêa spent R$ 22.7 thousand on a naval inspection trip to the USA, while Admiral Eduardo Vazquez spent R$ 40 thousand on an administrative mission to Washington. In total, 92 trips by military personnel to the U.S. capital were recorded, with an average cost of R$ 8 thousand in tickets. In 46 of them, the amount did not exceed R$ 5 thousand, although some officers traveled in business class.
The survey details that the travel expenses include different hierarchical levels. Senior officers, captains, lieutenants, and enlisted personnel also participate in the missions, which can last up to six months. In some cases, there is a possibility to bring family members, which increases the costs.
Commanders and Military Diplomacy in Europe
Among the costliest trips is that of the Army Commander, General Tomás Paiva, and his entourage to Italy in April for military diplomacy agendas in Rome, Pistoia, and Montese. The mission cost R$ 313 thousand. Another trip by General Paiva, carried out in February to Lisbon, resulted in R$ 126 thousand in expenses.
Additionally, approximately 300 people, including military personnel and relatives, have already generated expenses of R$ 1.5 million this year. A senior officer, for example, traveled to Madrid with his wife for a doctorate and post-doctorate, with tickets costing R$ 13 thousand.
Justifications from the Armed Forces
In response, the Army stated that the trips follow bilateral agreements and are part of the strategically defined planning in advance. The official note emphasized that: “such actions strengthen military diplomacy, enable the sharing of experiences, and exchanges to enhance defense capabilities, involving the minimum necessary personnel for these purposes.”
The Aeronautics also justified the international missions, highlighting that they are approved only after a detailed analysis of strategic objectives. According to the Force, “these trips involve a series of strategic objectives, such as preparation, training, exchange of experiences, and strengthening diplomatic ties with friendly nations, which are essential for developing security, defense, and protection of national interests; in addition to contributing to building a solid and globally respected institutional image.”
The Navy has not commented on its officers’ expenses abroad.
Political Context and Financial Impact
The issue gains relevance in a context where the Armed Forces face discussions about budget and structure. While resources are allocated for international trips, there are reports of a lack of basic equipment, such as helicopters and maintenance of operational means, according to recent reports.
In your opinion, do the Armed Forces’ international trips, which total R$ 22 million in 2025, represent a strategic investment for Brazil on the global stage or constitute excessive spending in light of budget constraints and equipment shortages?
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