Brazil launches third Riachuelo class submarine
Brazil has officially commissioned Tonelero (S42), the third Riachuelo-class submarine they built in cooperation with France.
Tonelero (S42) will stand alongside its predecessors Riachuelo and Humaitá. After launching, it will undergo a series of tests to assess its technical characteristics and readiness for operation.
The submarine program is the result of a strategic agreement between Brazil and France signed in 2008. This agreement cost the countries $7.9 billion and is designed to ensure the national security of both countries. The main developers of the submarine were Itaguaí and Naval Group.
In addition, work is also underway on the fourth Angostura submarine, which is scheduled to be launched by the end of 2025.
The Riachuelo class boats, modeled after the French Scorpène vessels, are noted for their high maneuverability and efficiency. However, the Brazilian ones are slightly larger – they are 232 feet (71 meters) long and 20 feet (6 meters) wide. The boats are equipped with a diesel-electric engine, which allows them to reach 21 knots (24 miles/39 kilometers per hour) and operate for 70 days in a row.
