In the annals of the Magallanes and Chilean Antarctic Region, there are several naval units that have marked its history. Likewise, their names are part of the golden pages of sacrifice and dedication, as is the case of the Fleet Tug (ATF) 60 “Lientur”; it bears the name of the Naval Unit that, between the 50s and 60s, protected the southern waters.
With a staff of 46 naval officers, during its two years of service it has carried out different tasks in southern areas that test the preparation of its men and women in the face of challenging weather and geography. These include providing logistical support to national and foreign Antarctic operators, the transfer of scientific commissions along with hydrographic tasks, maintenance and renewal of navigation aids, as well as being part of the Combined Naval Antarctic Patrol (PANC).
The Unit has modern navigation and positioning equipment, which helps the professional work of those who work on its various decks, where stories of extensive commissions and navigations throughout the Magallanes Region and Chilean Antarctica already resonate.
Its current Commander is Frigate Captain Jaime García, who pointed out that “this is a tugboat with polar capabilities to navigate in Antarctic waters, which was acquired by the Chilean Navy in 2023; we have already completed the ship’s second commission in the Chilean Antarctic Territory and after 33 days returning safely to home port.”
Tasks and challenges of operating in the Chilean Antarctic Territory
Within the framework of the Antarctic Commission (COMANTAR), the ATF “Lientur” concluded its second navigation in the waters of the Chilean Antarctic Territory, deploying logistic support capabilities with the transport of nine containers to Antarctic operators. In addition, in compliance with the Madrid Protocol, it collaborated in the removal of waste from the white continent for treatment in Punta Arenas, along with the delivery of 350 cubic meters of oil for national bases and maintenance work on navigation aids.
In addition to the above, the first deployment in the Antarctic area of the Hydrographic Boat “Albatroz” was carried out, the latter for the development of bathymetric studies contributing to the studies for updating the navigation charts generated by the Hydrographic and Oceanographic Service of the Chilean Navy (SHOA).
Commander García commented that “we had the opportunity to transport scientists to different sectors, from Fildes Bay to Rada Covadonga -both places in Antarctica-, contributing to the development of scientific studies.”
The different tasks are carried out by a highly cohesive crew, where experience and youth are combined in the development of loading and unloading tasks, navigation tasks, logistics and the different responsibilities that come with sailing in southern waters.
The ATF “Lientur” Maneuvers Officer, Second Lieutenant Arturo Chávez, indicated that “the ship stands out for its towing maneuvers, with a highly professional team that is attentive to any requirement.” “At 22 years old, I have had the opportunity to get to know Antarctica, and this has been an opportunity for growth: one is put under pressure and that is where all the capabilities emerge in a constant training process.”
On the other hand, the Master of Navigation and Maritime Operations, Sergeant Litoral Víctor Menares, highlighted that his position “is the one that plans, executes and advises the Command on what are the navigation routes to transit through safe places and reach our destination, being attentive in case of Maritime Search and Rescue (SAR) requirements, as well as if it is necessary to carry out pollution control operations”, stating that “being part of the “Lientur” crew is to fulfill the mission, always being loyal, attentive and committed to the assigned tasks”, he indicated.
For her part, the person in charge of the Rescue Service, First Corporal Carolina Gallegos, explained that “I am responsible for keeping the life rafts and life preservers assigned to the Unit’s personnel up to date, acting as helmsman during navigation and boat captain during operations.” “For me, the Chilean Antarctic Territory has been a good experience, living minute by minute, given that Antarctic meteorological conditions are changing. Operating in the Chilean Antarctic Territory brings out the best capabilities of a sailor and is a tremendous opportunity.”
The challenge and responsibility of command in the ATF-60 “Lientur”
“Being in charge of a unit in the Chilean Antarctic Territory is a tremendous honor,” said Commander Jaime García. “At the same time, it is a challenge: to live up to what the crew needs, to understand that one is there to work in an inhospitable territory, in a changing climate (…) as Commander there is that quota of knowing that one sets sail and has 46 men and women who are willing to carry out the tasks (…) and one owes oneself to one’s crew and their work, being a tremendous responsibility especially in Antarctica,” he concluded.
This colossus of the Third Naval Zone arrived at its home port in Punta Arenas, preparing for its next tasks, always staying alert to set sail, facing the challenges and demands of those who overcome the storm in the southern waters of Chile.