Authored by Mr. Jonathas R. Cerqueira –Accomplished Supply Chain Engineer with 14 years of experience.
Abstract
This article analyzes the technology transfer process in the context of binational projects, focusing on the cooperation between Naval Group (France) and Itaguaí Construções Navais (ICN) within the scope of the Brazilian Navy’s Submarine Development Program (PROSUB). The research examines the mechanisms used to enable technological transfer, the challenges faced by the parties involved, as well as the impacts on Brazil’s defense industrial base. The study adopts a qualitative, descriptive, and exploratory approach, considering secondary data, specialized literature, and technical reports. It concludes that technology transfer, when strategically planned, can foster technological autonomy, industrial development, and long-term national capability building.
Keywords: technology transfer, binational projects, naval defense, Naval Group, ICN, PROSUB, international cooperation.
- Introduction
The growing technological complexity of contemporary defense systems makes technology transfer (TT) a central component in international cooperation agreements. Developing countries seeking to strengthen their military and industrial capabilities view TT as an opportunity to reduce external dependencies and enhance strategic autonomy. However, TT involves substantial challenges, both technical and institutional, especially in binational projects with high technological sensitivity.
In recent decades, Brazil has sought to strengthen its Defense Industrial Base (BID) through strategic partnership agreements, as exemplified by the Submarine Development Program (PROSUB), established with France in 2008. One of the main goals of PROSUB is to internalize the technical knowledge required to design, build, and maintain both conventional and nuclear-powered submarines, representing a qualitative leap in Brazil’s naval capabilities. The Naval Group, a French conglomerate specialized in naval defense, was selected as the main partner, tasked with transferring know-how and supporting the structuring of ICN, a Brazilian company dedicated to submarine production.
This article aims to conduct an in-depth analysis of the TT process between the Naval Group and ICN, highlighting its foundations, instruments, outcomes, and challenges. The objective is to assess the effectiveness of the adopted model, understanding to what extent it has contributed to Brazilian technological and industrial development. To this end, a theoretical and empirical approach will be employed, combining concepts from the TT literature with a detailed analysis of the PROSUB case.
- Theoretical Framework
Technology transfer can be defined as the process through which technical, scientific, and organizational knowledge is transmitted from a generating entity to a receiving entity, with the aim of enabling the latter to use, reproduce, or even further develop such technology. It is a common practice in various industrial sectors, but it takes on particular characteristics in the context of the defense industry due to the sensitive and strategic nature of the technologies involved. In this field, TT is often subject to diplomatic agreements and international security requirements.
In the specialized literature, TT is generally classified into three main categories: horizontal, vertical, and reciprocal. Horizontal transfer occurs between entities with similar levels of knowledge, while vertical transfer takes place when a more advanced party transfers technology to a less developed one. Reciprocal TT, in turn, assumes a more symmetrical exchange relationship, in which both parties share knowledge. In the case of PROSUB, the adopted model was vertical, with France as the technological source and Brazil as the recipient and developer of local capabilities.
Analytical models such as the “Step-by-Step Capability Building” framework provide a useful structure for understanding the evolution of TT in complex projects. This model proposes three main stages: initial learning (acquisition of basic knowledge), technological adaptation (modification and integration into the local context), and full mastery (ability to innovate and develop proprietary technologies). In the Brazilian case, the challenge lies in reaching the third stage, consolidating national technological autonomy in the highly complex naval sector.
- Methodology
The methodological approach used in this study is qualitative in nature, with a descriptive and exploratory character. This methodology was chosen due to the need for an in-depth understanding of the subjective, organizational, and strategic aspects involved in TT within binational projects. The analysis is not limited to quantitative data but relies heavily on the interpretation of documents, reports, and specialized secondary sources.
Data were obtained from official sources such as reports from the Brazilian Navy, statements from Naval Group, and institutional documents from Itaguaí Construções Navais (ICN). Additionally, academic articles, dissertations, defense-focused publications, and records from technical-scientific events related to PROSUB were considered. These sources provided valuable input for understanding the strategies and challenges faced during the TT process.
The choice of the PROSUB case study is justified by its geopolitical relevance, technological scope, and the volume of public and private investments involved. The experience accumulated over the years enables a robust analysis of the mechanisms that facilitate or hinder the transfer of sensitive technologies between nations with different levels of industrial development. By analyzing this case, the study aims to extract lessons applicable to other international cooperation projects with similar objectives.
- Case Study: Naval Group – ICN
The Submarine Development Program (PROSUB) emerged as part of a Brazilian national strategy to strengthen maritime and industrial defense capabilities. Signed between Brazil and France in 2008, the program included the construction of four conventional submarines (Riachuelo class) and one nuclear-powered submarine. Additionally, it involved the construction of a shipyard, a naval base, and the transfer of key technologies, enabling Brazil to master, in the medium and long term, the complete production cycle of these naval assets.
To implement the program, a partnership was established between Naval Group, a French multinational with expertise in submarine construction, and Itaguaí Construções Navais (ICN), a company created in Brazil specifically to carry out the production and assembly phases. ICN, composed of both Brazilian and French capital, became the main vehicle for technological absorption. The company is equipped with modern infrastructure, a skilled workforce, and active participation throughout the production cycle of the submarines planned under PROSUB.
The TT process involved several simultaneous fronts. Brazilian technicians and engineers were sent to France to participate in immersive training at Naval Group facilities. These professionals later acted as multipliers of technical knowledge upon returning to Brazil. ICN also received documentation transfers, digital engineering systems (CAD/CAE), technical manuals, and ongoing operational support. Cooperation with Brazilian research institutes, such as the Navy Technology Center in São Paulo (CTMSP), was also fundamental to the development of local competencies, particularly in areas such as nuclear propulsion, materials, and onboard electronics.
- Results and Impacts
The first notable impact of the TT between Naval Group and ICN was Brazil’s acquisition of unprecedented capabilities in the field of military naval engineering. Prior to PROSUB, the country lacked sufficient expertise to design and build large-scale submarines with a high degree of technological sophistication. With the execution of the Riachuelo-class submarine manufacturing phases, Brazil began to master advanced processes such as special welding of pressure hulls, integration of complex combat systems, and production of critical components.
TT also brought significant transformations to the Defense Industrial Base (BID). Several national suppliers were incorporated into the project, many of which had to adapt to strict international quality and certification requirements. This process led to the qualification of Brazilian companies in areas such as precision mechanics, electromechanics, and naval automation. The defense production chain gained density and diversification, with future export potential and dual-use applications in sectors like oil and gas.
Another relevant impact was the formation of highly specialized human resources. More than 300 Brazilian professionals were directly trained through technical exchange with France. Additionally, ICN became a hub for continuous training, offering internal qualification programs and cooperation with universities and research centers. This skill development contributed to talent retention in the defense industry and opened up possibilities for future indigenous innovations—particularly in the development of the nuclear-powered submarine, which will require even more advanced competencies.
- Challenges and Limitations
Despite the progress achieved, the TT process faced a number of challenges. One of the main issues was the cultural and managerial differences between the French and Brazilian teams. Language barriers, divergent communication styles, and differing expectations regarding work pace caused delays and misunderstandings at various stages of the project. A continuous institutional effort was required to promote alignment between partners and ensure the smooth flow of technical exchange.
Another significant obstacle was the existence of legal and diplomatic restrictions associated with the transfer of sensitive technologies. Nuclear propulsion, for instance, is subject to international non-proliferation agreements and export control regulations, which limited the scope of TT in this specific area. Although France committed to transferring conventional technologies, the construction of the Brazilian nuclear submarine will require autonomous development and limited support from external partners.
Additionally, the long-term sustainability of TT is a critical concern. The technical expertise acquired risks being lost if the knowledge is not continuously applied and new projects are not pursued. The absence of future contracts, budgetary instability, and political discontinuity can compromise the gains achieved. In this sense, it is essential that the Brazilian government implement a long-term industrial and technological strategy to ensure the continuous application of the competencies acquired.
- Critical Analysis
The analysis of the Naval Group – ICN case suggests that technology transfer, although complex, can be highly effective when associated with a structured project featuring clear objectives, capacity-building goals, and strong political and institutional engagement. The model adopted by PROSUB stands out for its comprehensiveness, encompassing everything from professional training to the construction of physical infrastructure and the transfer of advanced technical systems.
However, TT cannot be understood as a linear process. It heavily depends on the receiving country’s ability to absorb, adapt, and internalize the transferred knowledge. In Brazil’s case, the success of PROSUB was enabled by significant investments in education, the structuring of local companies, and partnerships with science and technology institutions. Even so, institutional challenges and asymmetries between the countries involved required ongoing diplomatic and technical efforts to maintain the balance of cooperation.
Finally, it should be emphasized that the effectiveness of TT depends on its continuity and evolution. It is crucial that Brazil leverages the developed capabilities to enhance its autonomy in future projects—not only in the naval sector but throughout its Defense Industrial Base. The consolidation of a dual-use innovation policy that links defense and economic development may be the key to ensuring PROSUB’s technological legacy in the long term.
- Conclusion
The partnership between Naval Group and ICN under the PROSUB program represents a successful and complex experience of technology transfer in the defense sector. Brazil has taken a significant step toward technological autonomy by absorbing critical knowledge, developing industrial capabilities, and training specialized human resources. It is one of the largest military-technological cooperation projects in the country’s recent history.
However, the success of TT should not be seen as an endpoint, but rather as a starting point. The consolidation of acquired capabilities requires consistent public policies, incentives for innovation, and continuity in the production of strategic projects. The sustainability of TT also demands collaboration with universities, research institutes, and private companies, forming a dynamic ecosystem of defense and technology.
Therefore, this study concludes that TT in binational projects can be a powerful instrument for national development, provided it is accompanied by strategic planning, proper governance, and a long-term commitment. The Naval Group – ICN case offers valuable lessons for future similar ventures and serves as a reference for countries seeking to build technological autonomy in critical sectors.
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