- Switched off transponder and performed dangerous maneouvers blinding the radar and making Cindacta 1 (Brasilia) and 4 (Manaus) work more difficult.
- Ignored repeated alerts from Brasilia ATC whilst varying altitude by up to 3,000 feet.
Primary 3D radar is only accurate to within +/- 5000ft except when used for comparative heights between 2 aircraft in close proximity. Digital radars exhibit track weave, which is why separation criteria is normally increased to 10nm laterally when more than 100nm away from the radar head.
The military "rumours" would therefore seem to be based on an ignorance of basic radar performance. I would suggest they be discounted and that the suggestion to exercise caution be implemented concerning all reports until more detailed FDR information is released.