At the LAAD 2025 International Defense and Security Exhibition, the Brazilian Navy has confirmed its interest in acquiring the LPD-type amphibious assault ships that the United Kingdom is in the process of retiring. This follows the signing of an agreement in which the force formally requested information from the Royal Navy regarding the condition of the vessels that will soon be decommissioned, as has been repeatedly mentioned by the Brazilian Ministry of Defense.

Since late last year, with the new Labour government taking office in the United Kingdom, it has been confirmed that it will proceed with the retirement of a significant number of support vessels from both the Royal Navy and the Royal Fleet Auxiliary. Among these are the two amphibious assault ships HMS Albion and HMS Bulwark, a process that has sparked and continues to generate criticism and accusations of “selling off” these units to third countries.

Given this situation, it has been pointed out that the Brazilian Navy is among the potential buyers of one or both amphibious assault ships being retired by the United Kingdom. More specifically, the HMS Bulwark appears to be in the best condition for a return to service.

With a displacement of 18,500 tons, these ships have the capacity to transport up to 305 marines (expandable to 405 in special configurations) and operate heavy helicopters and landing craft. These units represent versatile platforms for both force projection and humanitarian assistance and evacuations, a particularly relevant capability given the severe flooding that Brazil has suffered and continues to experience.

Among the latest developments, during the LAAD exhibition, representatives of the Brazilian Navy and the Royal Navy signed a Letter of Information and a protocol of intent, through which the force formally requested data and details about the status of the mentioned amphibious assault ships.

The Brazilian Navy stated: “The agreement was formalized in the year that marks the bicentennial of diplomatic relations between Brazil and the United Kingdom, and the acquisition of these British vessels represents a significant reinforcement of Brazil’s naval power. This class of ships stands out for its ability to carry out humanitarian operations, respond to emergencies and public disasters, support Civil Defense, and fulfill its classic role of power projection.”

According to official statements: “We have recognized the need for Navy vessels to assist the population in various calamities resulting from climate variations, such as the flooding in São Sebastião (SP) in 2023 and Rio Grande do Sul in 2024,” said Fleet Admiral Edgar Luiz Siqueira Barbosa, Director-General of Navy Materiel.

Finally, should the acquisition move forward, both vessels would need to undergo refurbishment and replacement of various sensitive equipment, which currently allow them to operate as part of NATO. This process would be similar to the one carried out on the helicopter carrier HMS Ocean before its transfer to the Brazilian Navy, where it now operates under the Brazilian flag as NAM Atlântico (A140).

Images used for illustrative purposes.