The works were supervised by the then Minister of War, Marshal Hermes da Fonseca, during the presidencies of Rodrigues Alves and Afonso Pena, with support from Rio de Janeiro’s mayor, Francisco Pereira Passos.

At the same time, a commission studied the overall reorganisation of the Brazilian Army, focusing on providing adequate space and infrastructure for practical training and military life.

It was founded by aviation enthusiasts, with Alberto Santos Dumont as its honorary president and Lieutenant Ricardo Kirk—one of Brazil's earliest licensed pilots—among its members.

The aeroclub played a significant role in the neighbourhood’s expansion, eventually leading to the establishment of Brazil’s first airbase, located in Campo dos Afonsos.

Of the 38 neighbourhoods in Rio’s West Zone, Vila Militar ranks 12th in terms of property value, attributed to its urban planning, public order, and high level of security.

The neighbourhood features a safe, heavily patrolled, and well-forested environment, making it an ideal location for outdoor activities like skateboarding, cycling, walking, and running.