In a milestone for the Brazilian Navy’s air defense doctrine, Naval Aviation carried out, on May 25, an unprecedented exercise involving the interception of rotary-wing aircraft using AF-1 Skyhawk fighter jets.
The activity was conducted by the 1st Interception and Attack Aircraft Squadron (VF-1), with the objective of validating tactics for detecting, approaching, and tracking helicopters in flight.
+ Belgium Accelerates F-35 Delivery to Free Up F-16s for Ukraine
The simulated target of the operation was an AH-15A Super Cougar aircraft from the 2nd General Purpose Helicopter Squadron (EsqdHU-2), representing a low-speed, high-maneuverability aerial threat — typical characteristics of attack or tactical transport helicopters.
During the exercise, specific interception profiles were tested, with the AF-1 operating at speeds compatible with the intercepted aircraft. The Skyhawk’s performance was surprisingly positive, demonstrating stable and efficient control even at low speeds — a crucial aspect to maintain visual contact and situational awareness during the approach.
The AF-1 Skyhawk is the Brazilian modernized version of the classic A-4KU Skyhawk, acquired from Kuwait in the 1990s. It is a light, subsonic aircraft with high maneuverability and capable of performing interception, ground attack, and training missions. Despite the age of the original design, the AF-1 underwent an upgrade process that included new navigation, communication, radar, and electronic countermeasure systems, ensuring its operational relevance for Brazil’s Naval Aviation.
+ Video: Pantsir-S1 Shoots Down Enemy Drone at Kursk Border
The exercise reinforces the versatility of the Naval Fighter Aviation, which expands its traditional scope — focused on defending against fixed-wing aircraft — to include the interception of slow-moving vectors, such as helicopters equipped with anti-ship missiles or used in troop landing operations.
This operation occurs in a unique context: Brazil currently has no aircraft carrier in service, following the decommissioning of NAe São Paulo (A12). Nevertheless, the Navy maintains its carrier aviation doctrine through training and tactical updates with VF-1, preserving strategic capabilities for the future.
In the current scenario of asymmetric threats and naval tactical operations, the ability to neutralize low-speed vectors is essential. By investing in the Slow Mover Intercept (SMI) doctrine — aligned with NATO procedures — the Brazilian Navy demonstrates its readiness to respond to modern threats and effectively protect its maritime assets.
Source and images: marinha.mil.br | Flickr. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
