During this commission it is the first time that the Unit manages to navigate to the Prince Gustav Channel, an area characterized by its numerous floating ice.
Antarctic. Within the framework of the Antarctic Campaign 2023, taking advantage of the good favorable weather conditions in the Gulf of Erebus and Terror, an area of difficult access, the AP-41 “Achilles” closed this week the Mendel Base of the Czech Republic, which is activated between November and April of each year.
With the support of Naval Helicopter 43 of the General Purpose Helicopter Squadron HU-1 and Naval 46 of the Puerto Williams Air Detachment, the “Aquiles” carried out the transfer of passengers and cargo from the Mendel base.
This is the second time that the Unit arrives at this base and the first time it manages to navigate to the Prince Gustav Channel, an area characterized by its numerous floating ice.
The Aircraft Commander of Naval Helicopter 43, Lieutenant Commander Juan Elgueta commented that “the weather conditions where the ship was located differed from those existing at the base and on the route to it. The helicopters managed to reach Mendel in adverse weather conditions, with showers of snow and rain. This maneuver considered 5 and a half continuous hours with the two aircraft.”
For his part, the Commander of the AP “AQUILES”, Commander Mario Costa, highlighted the dedication and professionalism of the crew during the day of work, in addition to highlighting the pride of the “Aquileño” for having sailed between the complicated waters of the Wedell Sea.
The Chilean Navy contributes in each of its tasks carried out in the Antarctic Campaigns to safeguard sovereignty and territorial integrity, thus ensuring national interests. In this way it allows the effective fulfillment of the permanent tasks that the Institution fulfills in its different areas of mission.