In a groundbreaking achievement, SIATT supported the Brazilian Navy on December 17th in launching the National Surface Anti-Ship Missile (MANSUP) from a land-based platform. The pioneering operation was carried out by using the ASTROS launcher, an artillery rocket system used by the MB’s Marine Corps to saturate areas.
The test was conducted at Restinga da Marambaia in Rio de Janeiro under the coordination of the Navy’s Weapons Systems Directorate, with support from the Army’s Assessment Centre. This event is a critical milestone in the MANSUP Project, which aims to arm the Brazilian Navy’s new ‘Tamandaré’ class frigates with this state-of-the-art weapon, enhancing the nation’s coastal defence capabilities.
The Manager of the MANSUP Project and SIATT employee, Robson Duarte, stated the launch of the MANSUP missile from a land-based platform represents a significant and innovative victory for the Brazilian defense industry. “This launch provides us autonomy and independence, as it strengthens the country’s technological self-sufficiency, reduces dependence on imported weapons, and consolidates our Defense Industrial Base.”
Duarte also highlighted the importance of the project for Brazil. “MANSUP can be integrated with other defence systems, such as radars and the Blue Amazon Management System (SisGAAz), providing a coordinated and effective response to maritime threats. Protecting the natural marine resources of our Blue Amazon, such as oil and gas, is essential for the country’s economic development. The MANSUP missile plays a strategic role in guaranteeing national sovereignty and deterring threats to Brazilian interests,” he added.
The Director of DSAM, Vice-Admiral Carlos Henrique de Lima Zampieri, pointed out that the MANSUP, which has a range of up to 70 kilometers and high precision, brings flexibility and dynamism to military operations. “The missile is designed to be launched from ships and mobile platforms, such as the CFN’s launchers. The mobility of the launchers allows the defence to be adjusted according to the situation and geographical features, offering an effective means of defence and protection.”
The next step of the MANSUP Project involves the development of operational requirements and technical specifications for the future operationalization of the defence system to be used by the CFN, thus increasing the capacity to respond to current demands, as recalled by the Commander of the Marine Corps Material, Vice Admiral Roberto Ramos Lage. “The defence of the coast is a crucial element when we refer to the protection of our Blue Amazon. Today’s launch represents another step in the Navy’s successful project to equip the Marine Corps with adequate capabilities to respond to the diverse demands in a fast-changing world.”
