Counterterrorism in major events perception of terrorism and tactical legacy from the perspective of Brazilian Army Officers

Abstract

This paper analyzes the Brazilian Army’s doctrinal evolution during the preparation for Major Events. Admittedly, terrorism, one of the biggest security concerns in such occasions, comes up as the motivating force for the development of tactics, techniques and procedures by the Ground Force. Some operational capacities stand out in counterterrorism, among which Air Defense, Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear Defense and the employment of Special Forces Snipers can be highlighted. This investigation contemplated exploratory interview, questionnaires and interview with specialists, establishing a research sequence in the conceptual-theoretical and practical domains, the latter one characterizes the work approach, materialized by the analysis of experiences. The methodological options lead to conclude that major events are relevant for the evolution of the Army’s doctrine, taking into consideration all the factors for the ability in the capacity to face terrorism. The suggestion of scenarios indicates the possibility of terrorist attacks in the national territory or against Brazilian troops in operations under the aegis of international organizations and imposes the need for adaptations, among which the use of drones shows itself as a prominent solution to face the new threats.