Aratu-class minesweeper

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.

M-16 Anhatomirim underway
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

Ships

• M15 NV Aratù
• M16 NV Anhatomirim
• M17 NV Atalaia
• M18 NV Araçatuba
• M19 NV Abrolhos (In reserve)
• M20 NV Albardão

Bibliography

http://www.worldwarships.com/class/schutze
http://www.deagel.com/Auxiliary-Vessels/Aratu_a002135001.aspx