Brazil buys 34 German tanks in security drive ahead of World Cup, Olympics, and

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Brazil buys 34 German tanks in security drive ahead of World Cup, Olympics, and Pope Francis visit

By Jeevan Vasagar, Berlin
12 Apr 2013

The first consignment of Flakpanzer Gepard tanks is due to arrive in the South American country by June. The armour, which has been phased out by the German military in favour of missile systems, is equipped with two 35mm guns.

Brazil is strengthening internal security and counter-terrorism measures ahead of the World Cup next year and the Olympic Games in 2016.

Ahead of the sporting events, Pope Francis, the first Latin American head of the Catholic church, is due to visit Rio de Janeiro in July. He will say mass at Copacabana beach, pray at the Christ the Redeemer statue, and attend a Catholic youth festival.

The Brazilian army officer in command of anti-aircraft artillery, General Marcio Heise, told the G1 news service that the first eight Gepards would arrive in June. They will be deployed in the Brazilian capital, Brasilia, where the Confederations Cup - a prelude to the World Cup - kicks off on June 15, and in Rio de Janeiro, where the tournament ends on June 30, and also for the papal visit.

Brazil has spent little on defence in recent decades but is now seeking to modernize its armed forces. The country's defence ministry recently announced that it was purchasing surface-to-air missile and artillery batteries from Russia. Brazil is also building five submarines in partnership with France, and plans to replaces its ageing air force.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/southamerica/brazil/9990242/Brazil-buys-34-German-tanks-in-security-drive-ahead-of-World-Cup-Olympics-and-Pope-Francis-visit.html