The Brazilian Navy confirmed on September 9 2015 the purchase of former French Navy Foudre class LPDSiroco. The amphibious vessel will be renamed Bahia with hull number G40 and classified as “Navio Doca Multipropósito” or multipurpose amphibious vessel.
The Siroco is the second Foudre class LPD. Head of class Foudre was sold to Chile in late 2011. The Siroco was decommissioned from French Navy service in July 2015. Launched in 1996, the vessel is still relatively recent and modern. A delegation from the Brazilian Navy conducted an evaluation of the ship in December 2014. Brazilian Navy personnel are already in France to prepare for the delivery and transit of the vessel to Brazil.
Displacing 12,000 tonnes, Foudre class LPD can accommodate 4 helicopters (Puma type as used by French forces), 4 landing craft and 450 soldiers (900 for a short cruise) in addition to her crew.