Lula Pushes Brazil's Nuclear Submarine Project

Reference News Network, August 22 According to Brazil's "World Situation" website on August 19, Brazilian President Lula reaffirmed the federal government's commitment to maintaining investment in the Navy's nuclear program and submarine development plan on the 19th.

The statement was made by Lula during a visit to the Aramar Nuclear Industrial Center located in Iperó, São Paulo, where Brazil's first nuclear-powered submarine is being constructed.

During the visit, Lula emphasized that the project has strategic significance for the nation and is not limited to the military domain. The development of the submarine can promote advancements in various fields, including science, technology, energy, health, and industry, and will also help in the training and retention of skilled professionals in Brazil.

“As we continue to advance this submarine project, we are talking about the future. We are talking about the future of high-quality jobs, the future of uranium enrichment, and even exports to countries that wish to use enriched uranium for peaceful purposes,” Lula said.

He also argued that the project should be viewed as a strategic and priority initiative for Brazil. Lula stated that the federal government will work to ensure that the project receives the necessary resources to guarantee its continuation and eventual completion.

He mentioned that he had visited Aramar in 2007 when the Navy's nuclear program was facing funding difficulties. Nearly 20 years later, upon returning to the center, Lula emphasized that interruptions in investment would not only affect the progress of the submarine project but also harm the country's knowledge accumulation.

Lula also discussed the relationship between the submarine development plan and Brazil's technological sovereignty. The project originated from a special cooperation agreement signed between Brazil and France in 2008, aimed at constructing submarines within Brazil through technology transfer.

One of the main objectives of the project is to enhance Brazil's ability to develop and master the technologies related to submarine construction and operation, strengthening the country's autonomy in the defense sector. (Translated by Hong Muxuan)