Aratu-class minesweeper
# Aratu-class minesweeper

The Brazilian Navy operates six coastal minesweepers of the Aratu class.

## Design

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.

## Ships

* M15 NV Aratu
* M16 NV Anhatomirim (decommissioned on December 5, 2016)
* M17 NV Atalaia
* M18 NV Araçatuba
* M19 NV Abrolhos (decommissioned on August 20, 2015)
* M20 NV Albardão (decommissioned on May 21, 2021)
