NATIONAL FLEETToday the National Fleet is concluding a full renovation plan, since its ships have exceeded a 30-year service average. This renovation process is being accomplished with the incorporation of one Type 22 and three Type 23 British frigates, in addition to two “M” and two “L” Class frigates from the Royal Netherlands Navy.
NAVAL AVIATION
The Naval Aviation comprises all institutional air assets together with its on-land support infrastructure, organized, equipped and trained to be used by Naval Forces. Their main duties are air and maritime patrol and surveillance, surface warfare, antisubmarine warfare, personnel and cargo transport and contribute to protection of life at sea.
SUBMARINE FORCE
This force, that has recently finished a complete renovation process, operates two Scorpene units, SS “Carrera” and SS “O’Higgins”, and two U-209 units, SS “Simpson” and SS “Thompson”, build up the force. The submarine tender ship “Almirante Merino” completes the force by providing the necessary logistic support.
MARINE CORPS
These forces boast an enormous combative power that enhances Chile’s deterrent capability. They are under the authority of the Commander-in-Chief of the Fourth and Third Naval Zones, respectively.
AMPHIBIOUS COMMAND
A centralized Command comprised of amphibious and transport assets, responsible for planning, directing and coordinating units and personnel training. As well, it performs all the requirements for support of the isolated areas and our overseas territories.
SPECIAL FORCES
This force has expanded its original functions in a way that currently includes not only ship-to-ship attacks, but also minesweeping operations, military artefacts neutralization, amphibious support and other special operations.
NORTH AND SOUTH MISSILE BOATS COMMANDS
These units are forces in presence in our Third and Fourth Naval Zones which operate under the authority of the respective Commander-in-Chief.
