Navy Air of Brazil

• Founding Date: The Brazilian Naval Aviation (Aviação Naval Brasileira) was officially established on August 23, 1916, making it one of the earliest naval aviation branches in the world. • First Aircraft: The first aircraft used were Curtiss Model F seaplanes, acquired from the United States, which marked the beginning of Brazil's naval aviation capabilities. • World War I Contribution: Although Brazil declared war on Germany in 1917, the Navy Air did not see combat during World War I, but it played a crucial role in coastal patrol and anti-submarine missions. • Naval Aviation School: The Escola de Aviação Naval (Naval Aviation School) was inaugurated in 1916, becoming a significant center for training naval aviators in Latin America. • Famous Rescue: In 1927, the Navy Air played a key role in the search and rescue of the Italian aviator Francesco de Pinedo after his seaplane crashed off the coast of Brazil. • Aircraft Carrier Operations: With the arrival of the aircraft carrier NAeL Minas Gerais in 1960, the Navy Air expanded its operations to include fixed-wing aircraft and anti-submarine warfare. • Disbandment and Reactivation: In 1941, the Brazilian Air Force (FAB) was created and absorbed all military aviation, including naval aviation. However, Navy Air was reactivated in 1956 with a focus on rotary-wing and anti-submarine operations. • Modern Helicopters: Today, the Navy Air operates advanced helicopters such as the Sikorsky SH-16 Seahawk and Eurocopter EC725 Caracal for maritime patrol, transport, and search and rescue. • Antarctic Missions: Navy Air helicopters have supported Brazilian Antarctic expeditions, providing critical logistics, medical evacuations, and scientific support in harsh conditions. • Historic Squadron: The 1st Anti-Submarine Helicopter Squadron (Esquadrão HS-1), created in 1965, is one of the oldest and most distinguished squadrons, known for its role in anti-submarine and anti-surface warfare.