Chilean Navy photo

Favored by the optimal weather conditions of the day, during the morning of January 18, icebreaker Almirante Viel, an operational unit dependent on the Third Naval Zone, reached the waters of the Weddell Sea, east of the Antarctic Peninsula, to begin its long-awaited summer tests.

This achievement marks a relevant milestone in its first Antarctic Commission, by successfully overcoming the first sea ice fields, consolidating its operational capacity in this challenging region. Its crew lived with enthusiasm this significant moment within its Antarctic itinerary.

The Commander of the AGB 46 Almirante Viel, Captain of the Ship Juan Pablo Enríquez, highlighted the importance of this day: “We sailed specifically in the Gulf of Erebus and Terror, carrying out our ice tests with fantastic results. We are supporting various hydrography activities and collaborating with the Chilean Army in the Duse Bay area.”

The tests of Almirante Viel are being carried out under the operational command of the Third Naval Zone, supervised by personnel from the Directorate of Programs, Research and Development of the Navy (DIPRIDA) and with the presence of ASMAR personnel, which guarantees technical rigor in each of these operations.

Almirante Viel set sail from its home port in Punta Arenas with the ATF-60 High Seas Tug Lientur. During this deployment, in addition to the ice tests, the unit plans to carry out hydrographic work, maritime signaling maintenance and provide support to the various national Antarctic operators operating in this strategic region, thereby contributing to national development and the action of the State as well as to the security and interests of the maritime territory.