The Maritime Vector is related with the control of Chile’s vast maritime areas, an activity that enhances the link between the Navy and the community.

This vector aims to control and supervise Chile’s extensive maritime areas, and promote and protect its interests from a mostly social and economic perspective. Chile’s destiny lies with the sea. It is a nation that is open to the world, both economically and politically as well in terms of security.

 

Through the Directorate General of the Maritime Territory and Merchant Marine (DIRECTEMAR) (the Coastguard) and the Naval Zones, the Navy deploys human and technical resources along the length of the Chilean coastline, as well as its rivers and lakes, so as to safeguard human life. During summer, aerial, land-based and waterway patrols are made available in case of accidents, providing assistance with helicopters and/or motor boats. Moreover, the maritime rescue hotline number 137 is directly connected to the Rescue Headquarters located in Chile’s main seaside resorts so as to coordinate the level of assistance required.

 

The Navy, via the Directorate General of the Maritime Territory and Merchant Marine safeguards the rational use and exploitation of renewable living resources that populate the Chilean sea. It is responsible for supervising the season for fish and seafood, and verifying size and quantity according to regulatory provisions.

As regards protection of the environment, the Navy contributes to maintaining clean and safe seas, i.e. Offshore Protection, that enhances Chile’s economic development. In this context, it also promotes the rational use and exploitation of the enormous economic, tourist, and recreational potential of Chile’s maritime area.

 

The Navy’s involvement in Chile’s maritime development can be seen in the implementation of the code on International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) in Chile.

The Navy, via the Directorate General of the Maritime Territory and Merchant Marine, in its capacity as a Maritime Authority, is responsible for preventing the illegal trafficking of drugs along the length of the Chilean coastline. To fulfil these objectives, it works in close cooperation with the police.