USS Nimitz Arrives in Rio for Southern Seas 2026 Exercises

Overview

• The U.S. nuclear aircraft carrier USS Nimitz reached Rio de Janeiro to join Operation Southern Seas 2026, with joint drills scheduled for May 11–14 off the city.
• Brazil said it will deploy the frigates Independência and Defensora, the submarine Tikuna, and two AH-11B Super Lynx helicopters for the engagement.
• The plan calls for PASSEX at sea, technical exchanges between crews, and institutional visits to refine shared procedures and training.
• The Brazilian Navy stated that any foreign naval activity near its coast occurs with its knowledge and coordination, highlighting national control over operations.
• The stop in Brazil is part of a South America circumnavigation and features the USS Nimitz, the oldest nuclear carrier still in service at about 330 meters and over 100,000 tons.