The Chilean Navy 's mission marks a significant advance in the trans-Andean presence on the white continent , given that previously the icebreaker Almirante Viel made its first voyage within the framework of a scientific commission in Antarctic waters.
The new Chilean ship crossed the Drake Passage in favorable conditions, heading for Pedro I Island , located 560 kilometers west of the Antarctic continent. This uninhabited island is claimed by Norway and the establishment of a weather station is relevant because Chile has not opened a permanent base since 1995 .
Built under the Antarctica I Project at the ASMAR shipyards, the Almirante Viel , with a capacity of 10,500 tons , is presented as one of the most advanced vessels of its kind. Its design allows it to operate in adverse conditions , breaking up to one meter of ice.
With a range of 60 days and the ability to accommodate up to 34 scientists , the vessel is preparing to carry out essential tasks in upcoming expeditions , including collecting data on marine biomass and fauna .
This fact underlines Chile's interest in the area and implies a renewed focus on its foreign policy in Antarctica , in an area also claimed by Argentina .
Thus, tensions remain in force in the far south, especially considering the neighboring country's alliance with the invading United Kingdom , usurper of the Argentine archipelagos in the South Atlantic .
These actions by Chile are not surprising because they clearly reflect the intention to consolidate its influence in a region where sovereignty is in dispute , through the use of military and naval resources that, as we usually see, are then placed at the disposal of Great Britain in a clear colonialist strategy, of submission to Anglo-Saxon forces and against the interests of Argentina .
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