One of the ways in which the Chilean Navy has contributed to national development is by means of the oceanographic ship “Vidal Gormaz”, to search for natural gas beneath the seabed of the Chilean coast. This project is being developed together with the Pontifical Catholic University of Valparaíso and the United States’ Office of Naval Research.

Likewise, the Hydrographic Service Patrol vessel “Corneta Cabrales”, South America’s most modern research platform, owing to its state-of-the-art technology, supports the production of new nautical cartography on an ongoing basis.

The Chilean Navy participates alongside NASA and the Centre for Scientific Studies in a project wich studies the changes in climatic conditions and the glacial mass in the Patagonian Ice-fields of Chile and the Antarctic.

The difficulties posed by the vast distances between the areas under study and the logistical support were overcome by using the Navy’s P-3ACH aircraft. This aircraft carried out a series of direct flights from Punta Arenas to the Antarctic between 2002 and 2008. On these occasions, they were using the latest technology, such as NASA sensors, which included a CARDS radar capable of measuring glacial mass.

 

The Navy has adapted and enhanced the curricula and programs to train its Officers and Seamen, thus providing comprehensive training of the highest standards, focusing on the social and value-based educational approach required to exercise leadership at any of the institution’s levels.

 

With regards to fighting competence, the Navy has weapon and system simulators used for tactical training, supported by modern computer systems. This has enabled the Navy to rationalize resources and improve the quality of training at all levels, from weapons operators to commanders that lead the different forces.

 

The Navy’s Maritime Instruction and Training Centre (CIMAR) is home to the “Full Mission” Bridge Simulator. This virtual system, which employs state-of-the-art technology, enables Officers and Seamen from the Navy and Merchant Marine to practice and consolidate their navigational skills in a safe and dynamic environment.