Geopolitics

Brazil's EMGEPRON and TideWise to Collaborate on New MCM USV Development

DEFCROS News

30 Aug 2025 — 2 min read

Development of the Suppressor 7 Multi-Purpose Unmanned Surface Vehicle

Brazilian state-owned enterprise Empresa Gerencial de Projetos Navais (EMGEPRON) has partnered with local unmanned surface vehicle (USV) expert TideWise to initiate the construction of the Suppressor 7. This development is poised to align with the Brazilian Navy’s operational requirements.

Objectives and Contract Details

The primary focus of the Suppressor 7 is to fulfill the Brazilian Navy’s needs for a versatile USV capable of performing mine-countermeasures (MCM) and harbor patrol operations. In February 2024, TideWise secured a BRL 18.3 million (USD 3.4 million) contract from EMGEPRON to not only develop the Suppressor 7 but also to provide a deployable command-and-control (C2) station.

Timeline and Specifications

Construction Start: The manufacturing process is set to commence in the coming weeks, with the USV expected to launch in August 2026.
Commissioning Date: Full operational capability is anticipated by April 2027, following extensive trials.

Core Features

The Suppressor 7 will be constructed from naval-grade aluminum, measuring 7.4 meters in length and 2.4 meters in width. Key specifications include:

Top Speed: 24 knots
Operational Range: 490 nautical miles
Displacement: 4,700 kg

This USV is designed for both remote and autonomous operation, making it a flexible asset for modern naval operations.

Advanced Capabilities

Enhanced features of the Suppressor 7 include:

Fire Safety: An automatic fire extinguishing system
Navigation and Identification: Equipped with an automatic identification system (AIS) and hull-mounted multibeam sonar
Versatile Operations: Incorporates a quick connection single point system, an automatic launch and recovery system for underwater remotely operated vehicles, in addition to a stabilized platform for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs)

The foldable mast designed for remote operation will accommodate various equipment such as:

Lighting and Communication Tools: For enhanced operational communication
GPS Antennas and Navigation Radar: Ensuring precise navigation
Pan-Tilt-Zoom Camera: Facilitating real-time surveillance
Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR): For advanced terrain mapping and object detection

Strategic Implications

The development of the Suppressor 7 signifies Brazil’s commitment to enhancing its naval capabilities, particularly in the realm of unmanned systems. As maritime security challenges evolve, the integration of such advanced technology reflects a forward-looking approach that aligns with global trends in defense modernization.

By advancing the capabilities of the Brazilian Navy, the Suppressor 7 positions itself as a critical asset in enhancing national security and operational readiness in maritime environments.

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