Brazilian navy enters Argentina for joint exercise amid diplomatic crisis

Brazilian naval forces have entered Argentina for a joint military exercise amid a severe diplomatic crisis, according to recent reports. The exercise, known as Fraterno XXXIX, will commence from August 10 to 24, with activities taking place at Puerto Belgrano and Mar del Plata naval bases in Argentine waters. The move comes following a recent dispute between the two nations.

The crisis escalated last week when Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva removed his ambassador from Buenos Aires in response to insults from Argentine President Javier Milei. Milei had repeatedly called Lula a "corrupt" and "thief," later labeling him a "convict." Despite this fallout, the Argentine government approved the entry of Brazilian naval personnel and equipment into its territorial waters.

The Fraterno exercise, a longstanding bilateral operation between the two countries' armed forces, aims to enhance combined training and interoperability in naval, air, and amphibious operations. The tradition of the exercise dates back to 1978, and it is set to continue this year despite the political tensions.

Brazil is expected to deploy its new submarine Humaitá, commissioned in 2024, for its first international deployment in Argentine waters during the exercise. Both countries will send surface ships, aircraft, and submarines to participate in the joint operations.

The Argentine government justifies the authorization by stating that canceling participation would significantly impair the country's ability to train in complex combined operations with Brazil. Other joint exercises under the same decree include the Viekaren XXVI with Chile and the Siforex XIV and Unitas LXVII with Peru, reflecting a broader effort to maintain naval training and regional interoperability.