Description
Indigenous Turbojet Engine Developments Driving Brazil’s Defense Market
Brazil defense turbojet engine market is increasingly propelled by indigenous innovation, reducing reliance on foreign suppliers and enhancing national security through locally developed propulsion systems. Companies like Turbomachine and Polaris are leading efforts to create turbojet engines tailored for UAVs, missiles, and target drones, aligning with Brazil’s strategic push for technological self-reliance.
Turbomachine’s TJ-200 and ATD-150 Integration
Turbomachine, based in Jacareí, São Paulo, has developed the TM TJ-200 turbojet engine, a key enabler for Brazil’s first fully indigenous jet-powered UAV, the ATD-150 by Nest Design Aerospace. Launched in 2025, the ATD-150 operates at altitudes up to 20,000 feet with a cruise speed of Mach 0.6, powered by the TJ-200’s compact design (63 cm long, 33 cm diameter, 50 kg weight) delivering 3,200 N of thrust. This engine supports aerial target missions for the Brazilian Armed Forces, with export potential, and builds on two decades of turbojet R&D, including a transition to a 6,000-lb.-thrust turbofan for advanced drones and missiles.
Polaris TJ1000 for Missiles and UAVs
Established in 1999 by former Embraer engineers, Polaris Aero unveiled the TJ1000 turbojet in 2019, Brazil’s first domestically designed and manufactured engine for cruise missiles, target drones, and UAVs. Targeted at the growing demand for high-speed, low-cost propulsion, the TJ1000 addresses gaps in Brazil’s aerospace supply chain, supporting reconnaissance and strike missions while fostering industrial growth.
International Partnerships and MANSUP-ER Milestone
To accelerate development, Brazil partnered with Turkey’s Kale Jet Engines in April 2025 for the KTJ-3200 turbojet, marking Turkey’s first military turbojet export. Integrated into the MANSUP-ER anti-ship missile (developed by SIATT and EDGE Group), this engine extends range to 200 km and boosts reliability for naval and land launches, up from the baseline MANSUP’s 70 km rocket propulsion. The collaboration enhances Brazil’s maritime defense while providing technology transfer opportunities.
Synergy with Gripen E/F Modernization
While Brazil’s fighter fleet relies on imported General Electric F414-GE-39E turbofans for the Saab Gripen E/F (F-39 in local service), indigenous turbojet advances support UAV integration and missile armaments. With Embraer assembling 15 Gripens from 2025 at Gavião Peixoto and plans for up to 40 more, these engines complement broader modernization, including A-4 Skyhawk and F-5EM upgrades. The market is projected to grow at a 7.19% CAGR, reaching USD 32.55 billion globally by 2035, with Brazil’s contributions amplifying regional influence.
In summary, Brazil’s indigenous turbojet initiatives, exemplified by the TJ-200, TJ1000, and KTJ-3200 integrations, not only bolster UAV and missile capabilities but also drive economic growth through job creation and exports. These developments position Brazil as an emerging leader in defense propulsion, with sustained R&D investments ensuring long-term self-sufficiency amid global market expansion.
