Defense industry of Brazil

The Brazilian defense industry boasts a diverse range of manufacturers producing various military equipment, firearms, ammunition, missiles, aircraft, armored vehicles, and explosives. It generates an annual revenue of approximately R$1 billion and employs around 40,000 people, according to data from Aniam (Brazil's National Association of the Arms and Ammunition Industry).

From 1975 to 1985, Brazil became one of the few countries to simultaneously produce aircraft, artillery, armored vehicles, navigation and radar systems, and warships. At its peak, it was the world's tenth-largest arms exporter. The industry faced a crisis in the late 1980s and early 1990s, but some companies survived and continued their development into the 21st century.

Currently, Brazil’s largest military exporter is Embraer, which annually exports its Super Tucano aircraft in military and training versions, the ERJ series with military modifications, and its C-390 cargo planes. Other key players include Helibras (the Brazilian manufacturer of Airbus Helicopters), Avibras (a producer of missiles, rockets, and launch systems), and manufacturers of light firearms, particularly pistols and revolvers made by Taurus, shotguns by Boito, and assault rifles by the state-owned IMBEL. These weapons are exported for military, civilian, and law enforcement markets worldwide. Since 2007, Brazil has hosted LAAD, the leading defense, armament, and military equipment trade fair in Latin America, attracting visitors, buyers, and exhibitors from all continents.