Brazilian defence ministry seeks predictability for its budget

Inconsistent budgets have hindered Brazil's acquisition of F-39 Gripen E fighter jets. In November 2024, Brazil signed a letter of intent to procure nine additional aircraft, which would bring its fleet to 45. (Saab/Linus Svensson)

The Brazilian Ministry of Defence is seeking congressional approval for a constitutional amendment proposal that would make annual defence spending more predictable.

Continuous budget fluctuations have compromised the strategic planning of the armed forces and raised concern about the execution of essential modernisation projects, Brazilian Minister of Defence José Múcio Monteiro Filho told Janes on 3 July.

The proposal would modify the federal constitution to ensure that Brazilian defence receives a minimum annual budget equivalent to 2% of the previous year's GDP.

If approved, Constitutional Amendment Proposal (Proposta de Emenda à Constituição: PEC) n° 55/2023 would provide stable and predictable financial resources, enabling better planning and execution of strategic projects, Múcio said.

He pointed out that recent budget constraints have caused delays with the production and commissioning of submarines and fighter jets.

The armed forces have long signalled the need to increase defence spending to fund their modernisation.

PEC n° 55/2023 also states that at least 35% of the Ministry of Defence's optional expenses would be allocated for strategic projects that strengthen the Brazilian defence industrial base.

The proposal has been stalled in the Brazilian Senate since November 2023, but it is expected to move forward after the Commission of Constitution, Justice and Citizenship of the Federal Senate on 9 July approved a public hearing on the measure. Representatives of the armed forces, Ministry of Defence, Brazilian Association of Defense and Security Materials, and National Union of Defense Industries are expected to participate in the hearing.