On the occasion of the 17th BRICS Summit of Heads of State, to be held in Rio de Janeiro on July 6 and 7, 2025, the Brazilian Navy (MB) has deployed its Special Operations Units to reinforce security for the event, which will host heads of state, official delegations from eleven countries, and representatives of international organizations.

During the summit, the Comandos Anfíbios (COMANF) and the Combat Divers (GRUMEC) units will carry out special tactical operations aimed at mitigating risks and ensuring a safe environment for both the local population and international authorities.

It is worth noting that, in the context of the BRICS summit, Brazil has also conducted exercises related to responding to biological, nuclear, chemical, and radiological (CBRN) threats. One such exercise was held on June 17.

These specialized units have participated in the security efforts of all major events held in Rio de Janeiro since the Earth Summit (ECO-92), including the 2014 World Cup, the 2016 Olympic Games, and, more recently, the 2024 G20 Summit.

“The episodic and temporary deployment of these forces aims to contribute to the city’s security, operating in an integrated manner with other public agencies to ensure a protected environment,” explained Rear Admiral Stewart da Paixão Gomes, Naval Commander of Special Operations.

The Batalhão de Operações Especiais de Fuzileiros Navais (BtlOpEspFuzNav), an elite unit of COMANF, focuses its training on urban combat, counterterrorism, and rapid response to asymmetric threats. In preparation for the summit, it has conducted exercises in confined spaces such as hotels and convention centers—potential sites for critical operations. Training has also included the use of helicopters, JLTV 4×4 armored vehicles, and snipers tasked with protecting high-ranking dignitaries.

The Grupamento de Mergulhadores de Combate (GRUMEC), for its part, is preparing to neutralize threats originating from the maritime domain. Its tasks include vessel interdiction, recapture of floating platforms, hostage rescues, and the disposal of explosives, even in underwater environments. These actions are key to securing critical infrastructure such as ports, anchorages, and coastal facilities near the event venues.

BRICS is an international forum made up of eleven member countries: Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates, Ethiopia, Indonesia, and Iran. Its primary goal is to strengthen cooperation among Global South nations and promote reforms in global governance, fostering sustainable, inclusive, and equitable development.

Through this deployment, the Brazilian Navy not only reinforces its commitment to national security but also contributes to the success of an event aimed at redefining the global geopolitical balance.

Images for illustrative purposes only.

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