Through a series of images and videos that have gone viral on social media, progress in the construction of the first of the Brazilian Navy’s new Tamandaré-class frigates has been revealed. More specifically, it has been observed that the lead ship of the class, Tamandaré (F200), is already equipped with the 76/62 Super Rapid MF naval gun, provided by the Italian consortium Oto Melara-Leonardo.
Following the launch of the first unit last August, the Thyssenkrupp Brasil Sul (tkEBS) shipyard continues with the installation and integration of various sensor and weapon systems at its facilities in the city of Itajaí, Santa Catarina. Additionally, progress has also been recorded in the construction of the second and third ships of the Tamandaré class, with the keel laying and the cutting of the first naval steel plates taking place in June and November of 2024, respectively.
Thanks to a post on Instagram by the Shipspotting Itajaí group, a drone flyover captured the latest progress in the construction of Tamandaré (F200), confirming that the 76/62 Super Rapid MF naval gun has already been installed on the ship’s bow section.
As the heir to a long line of naval guns equipping hundreds of combat vessels, the 76/62 Super Rapid MF is one of the latest developments from the Oto Melara-Leonardo consortium. This system will also be installed on the Brazilian Navy’s next-generation frigates, which are set to replace the Niterói-class ships.
As Leonardo officially states, the “…OTO 76/62 Super Rapid (SR) gun is a lightweight, fast-firing naval weapon that delivers unmatched performance and flexibility in any air defense and anti-surface role, especially in anti-missile operations.”
Additionally, it “…offers the capability to effectively engage land targets, giving it a unique multi-role performance. The OTO 76/62 SR is suitable for installation on vessels of any type and class, including small naval units.”
As work progresses on the ship’s superstructure, it is expected that harbor and sea trials for the frigate will begin later this year, with delivery to the Brazilian Navy anticipated at a yet-to-be-confirmed date.
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