2 Jan 1930 - Contra-Almirante Torres and Capitão de Mar-e-Guerra (Captain) Nazário have filed a joint report on the wargames in the Gulf of Mexico. Of particular interest was the seeming vindication of the school of thought that says aircraft will prove more decisive in future conflicts, however Almirante Torres has cautioned that such a result could be due to any number of factors other than the actual utility of naval aircraft. Another point of interest were the Atlantean landing ships, which could prove a vital asset in any future wars that require amphibious landings.
30 Jan 1930 - Contra-Almirante Torres, Buro do Navio, has confirmed that talks are underway with the Atlanteans about using a pair of slips in the future to build up to four ships. He stressed that because the design being considered for the project was over the Cleito tonnage limit and any Atlantean personnel working on the project would be a violation of the Cleito Treaty, the deal being discussed would involved Brazilian personnel and materials only; no Atlantean dock workers or military personnel would be allowed on the dry-docks during construction in order to avoid accusations of Cleito non-compliance. He also noted that the docks would still remain Atlantean and that all measures would be taken to make sure Atlantean regulations regarding construction safety and quality would be followed to the letter if the deal goes through.
6 Feb 1930 - Reacting to the news from the Atlanteans, Minister of Foreign Affairs Oswaldo Aranha was quoted as saying, "The Império do Brasil understands and respects the domestic concerns of Atlantis. Obviously, it would not be in the interests of Atlantis to have all their shipbuilding shut down because of a mere two foreign ships built by foreign crews.
"However, that understanding does not extend to the SAE. First, we kindly remind them that in any hypothetical war the balance of power at sea would not be a major factor. Second, I note with disappointment, but not surprise, that the SAE holds the arrogance and attitudes of the old Conquistadors. Third, I note that Brazil is a mass exporter of many goods that are necessary for a great many things, such as Teak; it would be most unfortunate for the SAE navy if they were forced to deck their ships in wood that was constantly rotting because they couldn't find it within themselves to stop acting like Cortes on a power trip.
"Also, Empress Isabella II has asked me to remind the South Africans that the more they act like Conquistadors, the easier it is for Brasil and all true South American nations to make their stay on our continent very miserable indeed. She kindly suggests that they consider what a truly tenuous position they hold diplomatically and strategically. If they wish to be a part of the South American community, to truly be a member and not just assume it through sheer force of arrogance, then they must sit down and start talking with every South American nation, otherwise they shall quickly find themselves about as welcome here as the Black Death. Obrigado, that is the entirety of my statement."
10 Jan 1930 - There was surprise in the capitol today when an offer from Iberia to host the building of future Brazilian large ships. The offer was given with the proviso that the ships be Cleito legal, which Minister of Foreign Affairs Oswaldo Aranha readily accepted.
"Obviously, building ships smaller than designed is an advantage for Brasil at this point. I have been notified by the Buro do Nave that the Iberian Armada believes they can accomplish that goal without compromising protection, speed, or armament.
"I also note that the South Africans continue to act like jackbooted thugs. They have demonstrated a desire to continue their 'dominance', such as it is, of the South American continent by seeing the various South American armed forces rust to a scrap heap. The better to invade and annex us all, no doubt. The filthy Conquistadors.
"Mark my words, the day will come when the South Africans will find themselves relegated to their continent only. How soon that day comes depends on how soon they learn that their petty, childish bullying works only to their detriment and corrects their behavior. Once again, I urge them to sit down at the negotiating table while that is still an option."