The 1th edition of the LAAD (Latin American Defence and Security Exhibition) was held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, from 4 to 2025 April 15. It is an international exhibition and conference focused on defence and security in Latin America. The event attracts official delegates, military decision makers and exhibitors from various countries.
The initiative embraces all aspects of defense and security, presenting cutting-edge solutions for the naval, land, aeronautical sectors, as well as for public and corporate safety.
High-level visitors, including law enforcement officials, special forces and key leaders from the defense and security sectors of government agencies from all over Latin America and the rest of the world, were able to appreciate the significant participation in the exhibition of the entire industrial production chain, both national and international. Thanks to a dynamic and effective organization, numerous parallel events were also organized, including meetings of the main public security institutions and international symposiums on military logistics.
Also in this edition, Made in Italy was represented by the industrial excellence of the sector, with the aim of consolidating and expanding the presence of the national market, recognized worldwide as synonymous with quality and innovation.
In the wake of the excellent bilateral relations between Italy and Brazil, there was no shortage of discussion points on the international geopolitical scenario and on the possible areas of collaboration in the defense and security sectors. The strong bond between the two countries was naturally recalled, strengthened by the presence in Brazil of one of the largest Italian communities in the world.
In an era marked by geopolitical and economic uncertainty, international cooperation is an essential pillar to ensure security and contribute to global stability. The Italian presence at LAAD testifies to the competitiveness, reliability and technological excellence of our country in the defense and security sector. In line with the strategic partnership between Italy and Brazil, the Italian Pavilion hosted exhibitors oriented to further enhance the innovation and technical peculiarities of the Italian industry. This initiative will foster new business opportunities and could open the doors to a growing number of Italian companies interested in developing partnerships with Brazilian and South American counterparts. High-level technical-operational delegations visited the pavilions and participated in the scheduled events.
"The profound change in the world order and international relations imposes a great responsibility: that of preserving and promoting fundamental values such as democracy and respect for international law", declared the Undersecretary of State for Defense, the Hon. Matteo Perego di Cremnago, accompanied by the Italian Ambassador to Brazil, Alessandro Cortese, on the sidelines of the inauguration ceremony.
The event also provided the opportunity for a cordial meeting between Undersecretary Perego and the Brazilian Minister of Defense, José Múcio Monteiro Filho. In continuity with the previous meeting held during the last edition of the fair, the two representatives reiterated the importance of bilateral cooperation in the strategic and industrial sectors of defense.
"In an era marked by uncertainty, international cooperation is an essential pillar to ensure security and contribute to global stability", concluded the undersecretary. "The Italian presence at LAAD testifies to the competitiveness, reliability and technological excellence of our defense and security sector."
LEONARDO, IDV, HTI.CENTER and other national companies recorded a good influx of visitors at the Italian Pavilion. IDV (Iveco Group) illustrated the development of land platforms designed to ensure protection, mobility and versatility. Among the solutions presented: two configurations of the Guarani 6x6 amphibious armored vehicle, the LMV-BR (called Guaicurus) and the Centauro II VBC Cav-MSR 8x8, produced by the Iveco-Oto Melara consortium (CIO).
The collaboration between IDV and the Brazilian Army has led to significant supplies over the years: over 700 Guarani are already operational, while 32 units of the LMV-BR have been delivered within the framework of an overall planned supply of 420 units of the LMV-BR 2 model.
The Guarani vehicle will also be produced in the Command Post and Anti-Aircraft versions. The Command Post version is designed to ensure advanced command and control of units, improve situational awareness and integrate with the Army's C2 (Command and Control) systems. With a standard crew of three (driver, commander and gunner), it can carry up to four officers. It is equipped with rotating seats, a retractable awning with electrical system and lighting, and is armed with a 7,62x51 mm or 12,7x99 mm (.50 BMG) machine gun, as well as smoke grenade launchers.
The Centauro II VBC Cav-MSR 8x8 was selected by the Brazilian Army in an international tender for 98 vehicles. This wheeled armored platform, equipped with a 120 mm gun, is intended for reconnaissance and combat missions.
In the training field, IDV presented the Mobile Training Center (CTM) LMV-BR. Developed in Brazil, the CTM is a mobile training platform designed to support operator training during operations and maintenance in the field. It ensures continuous and immersive training activities, increasing the competence and safety of Guaicurus vehicle operators.
In the field of individual weapons, HTI.CENTER presented a new system in .50 BMG caliber and an assault rifle in the modern hybrid caliber .277 Sig Fury. The latter adopts a short-stroke piston mechanism and is derived from AK and AR platforms. High-quality materials and CNC machining guarantee a lifespan of 22.500 rounds with sub-MOA (Minute of Angle) precision.
Also on display were multi-caliber precision rifles with an integrated barrel block, a technology that eliminates the action between the bolt and the barrel, ensuring torsional rigidity and compactness.
Among the vehicles on display, the LMV-BR 4x4 (Guaicurus) stood out for its versatility. It is a light armored vehicle designed for special missions in complex operational contexts. The LMV family is already widespread in various armed forces around the world.
Embraer presented its defense solutions, including the KC-390 "Millennium" multi-role tactical transport aircraft, already in service with the air forces of Brazil, Portugal, Hungary and others.
The aircraft has recently been chosen by Sweden and Slovakia. So far, it has been ordered by ten air forces worldwide.
The A-29 Super Tucano aircraft has exceeded 580.000 flight hours, of which 60.000 in combat. It confirms its position as a world reference among light turboprop attack aircraft, with over 290 orders from 20 air forces. It is used in CAS, ISR, reconnaissance, training, escort and air control missions.
In 2024, Embraer announced new sales of the Super Tucano to the Portuguese Air Force (A-29N NATO version), the Uruguayan Air Force, the Paraguayan Air Force and two other unspecified customers.
The People's Republic of China also participated in the fair with NORINCO, which exhibited a wide range of solutions for the armed forces. Among the models presented: wheeled and tracked armored vehicles, artillery, UAVs, air defense systems, anti-riot and anti-terrorism equipment. The highlight was the BZK-005 reconnaissance drone, with stealth capabilities, an 8.000 meter operational altitude and a 150 kg payload.
NORINCO also showed the VN-22X series of armored vehicles in 8x8 and 6x6 configurations, intended for troop transport, fire support, anti-tank and anti-aircraft defense roles. The VN-22X 8x8 is armed with a 125 mm gun, while the 6x6 version, according to unofficial sources, is said to be equipped with a 105 mm gun.
The proposals are part of the Chinese strategy to expand its offering to the South American market.
Photo: author / IDV / Embraer
