Macron says France will help Brazil develop nuclear-powered submarines

President Emmanuel Macron has pledged French assistance for Brazilian scientists and engineers in their drive to develop nuclear technology for submarines.

"I want us to open the chapter for new submarines, that we look nuclear propulsion in the face while being perfectly respectful of all non-proliferation commitments," Macron said at the launch of a conventionally powered Franco-Brazilian submarine in Itaguai near Rio de Janeiro.

"You want it, France will be at your side."

Macron was speaking during a ceremony to launch Brazil's third French-designed submarine, which will help secure the country's long coastline, dubbed the "Blue Amazon."

Macron and his Brazilian counterpart Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva attended a ceremony in the Itaguai shipyard near Rio de Janeiro, launching the third diesel-powered submarine built in a $10 billion partnership.

The construction of the submarines was outlined in a 2008 deal between Lula and then French president Nicolas Sarkozy, which also included the purchase of 50 Caracal helicopters.

Brazil is also planning to build its first nuclear-powered submarine, the Alvaro Alberto, which would make it the first country outside the five permanent members of the UN Security Council to do so.

The French naval defence manufacturer Naval Group is supporting the design and construction of the submarine, except for the nuclear boiler which is being designed by the Brazilians.

France has been reticent to transfer such technology due to the challenges of nuclear proliferation.

Read more on RFI English

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