BRASILIA -- Between September 10 and September 13, a Spanish delegation to observe the ASTROS 202 multiple launch rocket system. The delegation was headed by Spanish Procurement Director of the Logistic Command General Fernando Garcia y Garcia de las Hijas. The purpose of the mission was to consider the ASTROS 2020 as a possible option for military use as well as to exchange knowledge between the militaries of the two nations.
The delegation visited the Headquarters of the Southeastern Military Command at Ibirapuera and the Avibras Aerospace Industry factory in São José dos Campos (SP). Later, the delegation visited the 6th Group of Missiles and Rockets (6th GMF), where they watched the launch and operation of the Astros 2020 System.
On August 26, 2011, the Brazilian Ministry of Defense awarded Avibras Industria Aerospacial SA an initial contract worth $28 million to commence development of the ASTROS 2020. This system is an improved, all-digital version of the ASTROS II, compatible with the AV-TM cruise missile. The six-year ASTROS 2020 program carries a potential value of $659 million.
The program has received some international attention. In October 2017, a Colombian delegation visited Brazil to observe the system. Now a Spanish delegation has joined Colombia in its interest in the system. While no contracts have been signed, the strong interest is good for Brazil's defense industry.