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The Brazilian Navy operates six coastal minesweepers of the Aratu class. Built in Germany in the 1970s by yacht-makers Abeking & Rasmussen, the wooden-hulled vessels are immune to magnetically-triggered mines. They conduct missions through magnetic, mechanical and acoustic means. Two shafts are powered by four Maybach diesel engines which produce 4,500 BHP, allowing the vessels to reach speeds of 24 knots. They are fitted with a single 40mm 70-caliber Bofors anti-aircraft gun.
| Class overview | |
|---|---|
| Name | Aratu-class minesweeper |
| Operators |  Brazilian Navy |
| General characteristics | |
| Type | Minesweeper |
| Displacement | 253 t (249 long tons) standard, 280 t (276 long tons) full load |
| Length | 47.44 m (156 ft) |
| Beam | 7.16 m (23 ft) |
| Draught | 2.40 m (8 ft) |
| Installed power | 4 Maybach diesel engines producing 4,500 BHP |
| Propulsion | 2 shafts |
| Speed | 24 mph (21 kn) |
| Range | 700 nmi (1,296 km) @ 20 kn (23 mph) |
| Complement | 32 |
| Armament | 1 x 40mm 70-caliber Bofors anti-aircraft gun |
Bibliography
http://www.worldwarships.com/class/schutze
http://www.deagel.com/Auxiliary-Vessels/Aratu_a002135001.aspx