Brazil and the Vital South Atlantic
Abstract
Throughout history, control of the seas has been critical in war and indispensable to economic prosperity. In today's global economy, the security of the world's oceans remains critical. Captain Bonturi contends that Brazil is well suited to take a leading role in the defense of the South Atlantic; Brazil's own defense is closely tied to the South Atlantic, he notes. By virtue of its geographical position and numerous good ports, Brazil is increasingly looking toward the sea for its growth as a major trading nation. In his analysis, Captain Bonturi examines the sea lines of communication so critical to Brazil's and the West's economic well-being. He identifies major choke points that could become vulnerable during a crisis, including the straight formed by the western-most coast of Africa and the eastern-most coast of South America--a line often overlooked in strategic analyses. The author also suggests a possible defense line --the 'South Atlantic Early Warning Belt'--be established between the two continents. Captain Bonturi recommends a NATO-like organization--a South Atlantic Treaty Organization--made up of South American and African nations for the defense of the South Atlantic.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 01, 1988
- Accession Number
- ADA259350
Entities
People
- Orlando Bonturi
Organizations
- National Defense University