On August 29, the Brazilian Navy (MB) and the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force Training Squadron conducted several operational exercises off the coast of Rio de Janeiro state. The frigates “Defensora” and “Uniao” had departed from the Rio de Janeiro Naval Base the previous day, heading toward Cabo Frio, Rio de Janeiro, where they had designated a rendezvous point for the Japanese ships.
The Japanese Training Squadron, under the command of Rear Admiral Hiroshi Watanabe, consists of the training ship JS “Kashima” and the destroyer JS “Shimakaze,” a Hatakaze-class destroyer, adapted for training. The stop in Brazil is part of a training cruise, designed to qualify future officers and strengthen diplomatic relations.
In addition to the frigates “Defensora” and “Uniao,” the Brazilian Navy allocated the AH-11B “Super Lynx” aircraft, embarked on the frigate “Defensora,” and the AF-1 “Skyhawk,” which took off from the São Pedro da Aldeia Naval Air Base (RJ), for this mission. The ships conducted several operational exercises through tactical maneuvers, including a transit exercise under aerial threat, with the participation of the AF-1 “Skyhawk” of the 1st Interception and Attack Squadron, simulating an enemy threat.
The AH-11B “SuperLynx” aircraft was used to conduct a Helo Cross Deck exercise , with successive landings of the Brazilian aircraft aboard the JS “Kashima” vessel. These activities contributed to the training of the crews and the improvement of embarked air operations.