CABOTAGEM E SEGURANÇA DO TRÁFEGO AQUAVIÁRIO: O PAPEL ESTRATÉGICO DA MARINHA DO BRASIL NO ORDENAMENTO MARÍTIMO NACIONAL

Cabotage plays a fundamental strategic role in Brazil’s logistics system, establishing itself as an essential modal for territorial integration, cost reduction, and environmental sustainability. The expansion of this activity requires a robust regulatory framework and rigorous enforcement to ensure the safety of waterway traffic within the country’s jurisdictional waters. In this context, the Brazilian Navy assumes a central position as the Maritime Authority, responsible for the regulation, monitoring, inspection, and protection of national sovereignty for the regulation, monitoring, inspection, and protection national sovereignty in the Blue Amazon. This study deepens the analysis of the current legal framework, especially Law No. 9,537/97, Decree No. 2,596/98, and the Maritime Authority Standards (NORMAM), highlighting their role in structuring national maritime governance. Furthermore, the use of advanced technologies such as the Vessel Traffic Service (VTS) and Automatic Identification Systems (AIS) is discussed, which enhance safe traffic management and accident prevention involving environmental and human risks. The study also details the functions of naval inspectors and district authorities, emphasizing the importance of integrated action to maintain safety, environmental protection, and the strengthening of the blue economy. The research concludes that the effectiveness of the Brazilian Navy in maritime regulation is indispensable for sustainable development, sector competitiveness, and reaffirmation of sovereignty over Brazilian jurisdictional waters.