The Chilean Navy during the Cold War (roughly 1947–1991) played a complex role shaped by Chile’s geography, domestic politics, and shifting global alliances. Chile’s 4,000 km coastline gave its navy enormous strategic importance for controlling maritime trade routes in the South Pacific and Southern Cone, including approaches to Antarctica and the Strait of Magellan. As part of the Inter-American system (OAS, TIAR), Chile often aligned with U.S. anti-communist policies, especially after the Cuban Revolution (1959). Chile’s navy was also oriented toward balancing against Peru and Argentina, both seen as long-term rivals.
The Chilean Navy modernized slowly after WWII, often acquiring second-hand U.S. and British vessels (destroyers, submarines, and frigates). Chile also participated in U.S.-led military exercises and training exchanges. The navy maintained professional autonomy and was generally conservative, suspicious of leftist political movements in Chile. Under President Salvador Allende (a Marxist), the navy’s relationship with the government deteriorated. U.S. intelligence saw the Chilean Navy (more than the Army) as a reliable anti-communist partner. The navy played a crucial role in the 1973 coup that overthrew Allende: Admiral José Toribio Merino became a member of the ruling junta.

The navy led early operations in Valparaíso, securing ports and preventing resistance. Naval bases became detention and interrogation centers for political prisoners. The Dictatorship Period (1973–1990) saw the navy under Admiral Merino being one of the four pillars of Augusto Pinochet’s military regime. It modernized with foreign purchases despite arms embargoes: Acquired new submarines, missile boats, and frigates (mainly from the U.K., Netherlands, and Germany). Developed amphibious capabilities, partly motivated by tensions with Argentina.



In the Beagle Conflict (1978), Chile and Argentina nearly went to war over islands in the Beagle Channel. The Chilean Navy prepared to defend southern waters; Vatican mediation prevented war.

The navy maintained a strong institutional identity, with heavy U.S. influence in training and doctrine. With the transition to Democracy (1990–1991) after Pinochet, the navy, like the rest of the armed forces, retained significant autonomy but was afflicted by discredit for its political support of the previous regime. By the end of the Cold War, still, Chile had one of the most modern navies in South America, capable of projecting power in the South Pacific and Southern Cone.

Today, the challenges are more technological than geopolitical as the situation on the continent does not requires a massive polict change. Of course, the fall of USSR had imediate consequences on a more austere budgetization of the Navy, Chile managed to retain still one of the more capable navies in Latin America, particularly strong in its undersea warfare, surveillance, and patrolling its vast maritime zones (including the remote regions like Patagonia, Juan Fernández, and Easter Island).


Almirante Riveros, ex-Dutch Doorman class frigate

It also pushing for greater industrial autonomy, with the will to build more of its ships domestically under a National Shipbuilding Policy, having more local content in key systems, etc. Some of the major recent and ongoing modernization efforts concerns Combat Management System (CMS) Upgrades, after signing with Turkish company Havelsan to install the ADVENT CMS on two of its M-class (Karel Doorman type) frigates: Almirante Blanco Encalada and Almirante Riveros. The project will take about 4 years. There is a partnership with Portuguese firm EID to equip the same two frigates (Almirante Blanco Encalada and Almirante Riveros) with EID’s OceaNEX integrated communications system.

The navy has upgraded all four of its submarines (two Thomson-class = Type 209/1400L, two Scorpène-class) with OSI’s Tactical Dived Navigation System (TDNS), including abilities for GNSS-denied navigation etc. This improves safety, stealth, and operational reliability. The Capitán Prat frigate recently received integration of Exocet MM40 Block 3 anti-ship missiles. There are ongoing efforts to replace or upgrade older subs, notably the Type 209/1400L submarines are aging, and studies are underway to replace them. In 2025 the Chilean government approved the formation of a Naval Construction Committee under CORFO (the agency for production promotion), as part of a naval industrialization / shipbuilding policy. Goal: have surface vessels needed by the navy built domestically. Projects underway include the construction of “multipurpose landing ships/barcazas de desembarco” under what is called Proyecto Escotillón or similar phases.

The Legacy fleet from WW2

Chile stayed neutral in both conflicts, inline with other American states and because of several factors, notably because in WW1 Chile only had a small shipping fleet of just 87 steamers, 33 sailboats, a detail for U-Boats. It was the same in 1940, Von Spee’s squadron was even able to supply in Chilean ports, or taking refuge after the squadron was obliterated. German Merchant ships were however interned. After the hostilities ended, some of these ships were either integrated or scuttled.

The most cruel lack of naval power was mostly compared to its neighbour Argentina which had two capital ships, while Chile had nothing but elderly ships, and the museum ship ironclad Huascar. The order of two battleships in 1913 was cut short when the first one was requisitioned by the government, integrated into the RN as HMS Canada, and the second proposed postwar and completed as an aircraft carrier (HMS Hermes). As a result, Chile had to wait postwar to obtain its only modern capital ship in decades. There was the 1927-1931 naval plan, only one able to restore confidence in the Navy (Latorre modernized in Great Britain, construction of 6 destroyers, 3 submersibles, a sub depot ship and two oilers) just before a mutiny that was lost against the loyal army and air force, political downfall and deconsideration in the public. In 1945, Chile was not that much powerful, after the 1930s maintenance and budget crisis causing waves of decommissions.

1945 Chilean order of battle

Chilean capital ship: Alm. Latorre

The grand old lady was probably the British-built oldest dreadnought of her generation still around. Modernized in 1930 she was on par with technologies of the time, but a dinosaur at the jet age, lacking radars. But she was kept as a training ship, the only logical choice. In 1949 a report clearly showed the poor state of her machinery, which was overhauled in 1950, to at least keep her seagoing capabilities. Also, she was equipped at last with a basic WW2 US stock aerial search radar. After all, she was still the country's ambassador. As a footnote, Chile also kept the ironclad Huascar as a museum ship, a souvenir of the pacific war with Peru.

However, in 1951, Almirante Latorre suffered an engine accident, which killed three crewmen. Now judged too dangerous to operate, she was kept permanently moored in Talcahuano, and later became a storage hulk for fuel oil... She was at last decommissioned in October 1958, sold to Mitsubishi Heavy Industries for BU in February 1959 (at just $881,110) for scrap. Still when departing, a grand ceremony was held on 29 May 1959, and she was towed off under the cheers and salutes of the assembled Chilean fleet. The tug Cambrian Salvos managed to reach with her Yokohama by August. An interesting footnote here, many of her parts were reused for the restoration of national treasure IJN Mikasa, badly deteriorated after World War II, so her scrapping went on until 1961.

Chilean cruisers

Chacabuco after 1942.

On this chapter, too, Chile was in dire straits. Unlike Argentina which obtained three brand-new cruisers in the interwar, and Brazil that had Bahia fully modernized, Chile was left with a collection of pre-WWI ships dating back from its naval rivalry with Argentina: The only ones that were still around in 1945 were CNS Chacabuco and O'Higgins. The first dated back to 1898, and was still well maintained, but never really modernized before 1942. She obtained new 6”/50 cannons, extra anti-aircraft machine guns, funnel deflectors new anti-submarine equipment, paravanes, a new command bridge and better accommodations to be used as a training ship. In 1945, she received four 57mm/40 and ten 20mm/70 Mk 4 Oerlikon AA guns in addition, but lacked radar until her retirement in 1959.

On her side, O'Higgins was a much larger armoured cruiser, but she only received cosmetic changes. She was already deactivated in 1933, used as a moored training ship, barrack ships, and was eventually disposed of in 1958, and latter sold for scrap in accordance with Law 11,542 of June 5, 1964. Her unmaintained hull in sorry state was sold to the Pacific Steel Company. Thus, needless to say, Chile urgently needed postwar new cruisers as capital ships. Fortunately, WW2 has seen the construction of many modern vessels, now sold after 1945 at steel weight price.

Chilean destroyers

A camouflaged Serrano at anchor, date uncertain, perhaps in WW2. Chilean ships stayed camouflaged postwar as well. On that chapter, the situation was not that bad. Thanks to the only interwar naval plan, Chile had the Serrano class destroyers, six 1928-launched, British built (Thornycroft) destroyers somewhat modelled on the new Type A standard. With four main guns and two torpedo tubes banks, they were still relevant in 1945, albeit lacking radar. They were kept as long as possible until new destroyers were provided, purchased from the US. Thus, they were discarded gradually between 1957 and 1967 for the last one, CNS Serrano.

Submarines

On that chapter, the situation was a bit less rosy. With the appearance of the Type XXI in 1944, WWI sub designs seemed a lost cause. Chile still had three 1917 British-built subs, Fresia, Guacolda and Guala (364/435t) which were essentially Vickers Holland II types. Status was uncertain, but they were discarded in 1949 and 1953.

In better shape were the three Capitan O'Brien class, built in Britain as part of the same naval plan seeing the destroyers' construction. They were typical of the time and modelled after the Odin class, with the characteristic main gun mounted high in the conning tower. It does not appear they had any upgrades or modernization over the years. They were simply replaced when new Oberon class were purchased, in 1957-58.

1946-47 acquisitions

Frigates acquisitions (1946)

This part is more interesting. In 1946, both Canada and Britain were getting on masses of civilian-built ASW vessels, namely River class frigates and Flower class corvettes. They were sold almost at steel weight price, all equipped, and a bounty for all 2nd-3rd rank navies willing to expand their navies on a budget. Chile obtained three of each class:

Covadonga, Esmeralda and Iquique (River class) of Canadian construction (Esmeralda class), with Esmeralda being renamed Baquedano to free the name in 1952. They had a SU radar and type 144 sonar, but no other modernization. All three served until 1968.

Second were three Flower class (Casma class): Casma (ex-Stellarton), Chipana (ex-Strathroy) and Papudo (ex-Thorlock). Also unchanged, they had stock type 271Q or type 273 or type 291 radar, type 144 sonar. Chipana was employed as survey ship. They were discarded in 1967-69.

Misc. Vessels

In addition, the Chilean Navy also gained a sizeable amphibious fleet, there again based on the bounty of surplus vessels, this time in the USN inventory.
-Four LSMs ("Aspirante class")
-Six LCICs (Cabo Bustos class)
-Eight numbered LCPs
-Twenty Tow LVCPs
-Two LCPLs
It seems they were already worn out and were discarded from 1958 onwards, the last in 1967.
As a footnote, Chile also acquired three ex-US Tugs patrol crafts (Lautaro class). They were scrapped in 1986.
There was also the submarine depot ship Araucano (1929). She was discarded in 1962.

History of the Chilean Navy 1947-90

Destroyers Cochrane and Blanco Encalada, Fletcher class, light cruiser O’Higgins, destroyer Almirante Riveros and light cruiser Capitán Prat in Arica port, circa 1965.

Tensions always has been there as the country has been beset by domestic and international problems, and difficult relations with Argentina, having a long-standing border and contested shares waters far south, with fishery control and oil deposits discovered in a contested area. In fact, Chile has a problem with oil and the country had a token part of the national demand through indigenous production. Relations with Peru have been strained since the War of the Pacific (1879-83), when Chile crushed Peru. The significant increase in strength of the Peruvian Navy vis-à-vis that of Chile in recent decades has added to the pressure upon the Chilean Navy. Thus, today, the Chilean Navy faces reputedly strong fleets to both the north and south.

Chile formulated its Antarctic claim in 1940 and by 1947, now reinforced by the frigates and corvettes seen above, plus amphibious vessels, it established its first base, (Captain Arturo Prat) on the continent. That was before the two other bases established by the Chilean Army or Air Force, but the navy retained a major role in supplying these three Chilean bases. It also rescued the MV Explorer in 1972 and 2007. The Navy also gained a new ambassador, replacing the Battleship Latorre: The sailing-school ship Esmeralda, which began operations in 1952, making world cruises with selected cadet officers and NCOs as a requirement for graduation. There was also previously a much older sailing ship, General Baquedano, which was preserved.

In the 1950s, the Chilean Navy took part in several border incidents with the Argentine Navy, and Argentine civilians on the Beagle Channel and Cape Horn. These were mostly incursions into Chilean waters by Argentine fishing ships. This went awry when a Chilean lighthouse was briefly shelled by Argentine ships, known as the Snipe incident by 1958.

By the late 1970s, the Chilean Navy was well present as well around the Picton, Lennox and Nueva islands, also looked after by Argentina. This was before the Falklands, but well into this wave of nationalistic claims. Chile's international problems, which directly affect the navy, do not end here.

After the 1973 Chilean coup d'état, in which participated the Army, Air Force, Carabineers, but also the navy led by Admiral Jose Toribio Merino, a government junta led by Augusto Pinochet was setup. After resigning in 1981, Admiral Merino became chairman until March 199, and he was also the national defence minister. Esmeralda, from an admired ambassador around the world, became a floating prison with a torture chamber for political prisoners in 1973–1980 with perhaps c100 kept there at times. Long after the junta was ousted from power, the old spectre of this era resurfaced, and this tarnished the reputation of the sailing barquentine when she resumed her "tall ships" tours. The junta era however saw an unprecedented period of growth and expansion for the Navy. Anf both the marines and a newly created special forces were considerably strengthened.

The fall of the Allende government in 1973 however had strained United States-Chilean relations to breaking point. Thus, the major supplier of warships and spare parts to Latin America has cut off Chile. This impacts very heavily on the maintenance of the Fletcher class destroyers and other US-built ships in the Chilean fleet. The reactivation of the cruiser O'Higgins in 1978 and the submarine Simpson in 1977 evidenced the need for fleet units. Also, Chile had been unable to purchase new warships from abroad or to secure a bi-national construction agreement, as Argentina and Peru have done.


Almirante Williams underway close to the Tierra del Fuego

The Beagle Conflict (1978)

The Beagle Conflict was a major territorial dispute between Chile and Argentina during the Cold War, centered on sovereignty over three small islands at the southern tip of South America. It very nearly led to a full-scale war in 1978. Here’s a structured breakdown: The Beagle Channel is a narrow waterway south of Tierra del Fuego, connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Control of islands there would extend each country’s rights over surrounding waters and potential maritime routes.

The disputed islands: Picton, Lennox, and Nueva, located east of Tierra del Fuego. Argentina claimed the islands based on its interpretation of colonial boundaries, while Chile relied on an 1881 Boundary Treaty, which it believed gave it sovereignty.
In 1971, both countries agreed to submit the dispute to international arbitration, with the United Kingdom’s Crown acting as mediator.
In 1977, the tribunal awarded sovereignty of the islands to Chile.
Argentina’s military junta rejected the ruling, declaring it “null and void.”
Tensions escalated as both nations’ armed forces mobilized.

Operation Soberanía (Argentina): Argentina’s plan to invade and seize the islands, and potentially strike Chilean positions in Tierra del Fuego and Patagonia. In December 1978, Argentine forces prepared for attack—army units moved south, naval task forces deployed, and air force assets were on alert. Chile’s navy, led by Admiral José Toribio Merino, mobilized quickly, deploying ships and submarines to defend the disputed zone. Given Chile’s geography and naval strength, the Chilean Navy would have been the backbone of resistance. On December 22, 1978, Argentine forces were within hours of launching the invasion when a sudden severe storm in the Beagle Channel disrupted plans.
Just as war seemed imminent, Pope John Paul II offered to mediate. Both sides accepted, suspending military action. Over several years of Vatican diplomacy, an agreement was reached.
In 1984, Argentina and Chile signed the Treaty of Peace and Friendship in Rome: Chile retained Picton, Lennox, and Nueva Islands. Argentina received important maritime rights, including guarantees of navigation through the Strait of Magellan. Both countries pledged peaceful resolution of future disputes.
The Chilean Navy was decisive in deterring Argentina: Chile had a modern, professional navy, better trained than Argentina’s. Argentina’s armed forces were stronger overall, but Chile’s naval control of southern seas made a quick victory uncertain. The crisis reinforced the Navy’s central role in Chilean defense and justified later modernization.

The Beagle Conflict was one of Latin America’s closest approaches to interstate war in the 20th century. It highlighted the risks of Cold War–era military regimes confronting each other.
Peaceful resolution through Vatican mediation is often cited as a rare success in conflict prevention.

During the Falklands War in 1982, the Chilean fleet was moved south to add pressure to the Argentine Navy, after a multiplication of incidents over the decade. Chile's acquisition problems in the early 1980s in contested waters led Chile to order two Type 209 submarines, built three small landing ships under bi-national construction agreement with France. During the 1980s, the Chilean Navy managed to acquire four ex-British County class guided missile destroyers, its far largest assets for decades. These very seaworthy ships, well suited for the harsh conditions around the Chilean coasts, acting as flagships for smaller destroyers and frigates. Their acquisition made it possible to retire the old cruiser O'Higgins (ex-Brooklyn) which has become a museum ship in the USA.

During the war, there were persistent rumours that the British carrier Hermes was on offer to Chile for transfer after her final commission in the Royal Navy, but these came to nothing. For many decades the Chilean Navy, unit for unit, has been reported to be the best in Latin America. Evidence suggests that every effort is being made to retain this quality. Soon, however, the adverse material position of the navy must have an impact.


Guided Missile Destroyer Almirante Blanco Encalada (D15) in the 1990s.

Organization of the Chilean Navy

Old Armada de Chile HQ in Valparaiso

Institutions: Naval Academy and Command

Naval educational institutions were reformed in 1968 so to allow president Eduardo Frei Montalva to create a corp of "Naval Specialities Schools System" headquartered at Las Salinas Naval Base, Viña del Mar. Also the Naval Seaman Training School became the Seamen's School "Captain Alejandro Navarrete Cisterna" during its centenary, and it became the Naval Polytechnic Academy in 1995 after a merger of all component schools, albeit retaining their independent constituent academies. The main Atlantic naval base is at Talcahuano where there is also a major repair yard. This Talcahuano base also houses the four submarines and their tender ship. Other bases are Puerto Montt, Punta Arenas (Strait of Magellan and Tierra del Fuego), Iquique and Puerto Williams (Cape Horn and Drake Passage). And of course Valparaiso. In 1995 personnel numbered 22,800 including 2000 officers and 5000 Marines. Conscription is for a 12-month period.

Chilean Marines (Infanteria de Marina de Chile)

The birth of the modern Chilean Marine Corps started in 1964. The Cuerpo de Infantería de Marina de Chile was in reality created in 1817, but it was reorganized, reequiped and expanded massively in 1964. The Chilean Marines are now organized into two battalion detachments (Destacamento de Infantería) and two full-time battalions plus support units, ramped up to a full division formation of 2 brigades plus independent units as of today.

The Expeditionary Amphibious Brigade (Brigada Anfibia Expedicionaria, BAE), is its amphibious component tasked of support for peacekeeping missions and war operations on all terrains, headquartered in Concon and Talcahuano. It comprised the 21st Marine Battalion "Miller", 31st Marine Battalion "Aldea", 41st Marine Combat Support Battalion "Hurtado" and 51st Marine Logistic Battalion. The two remaining Marine Detachments and independent are tasked of the protection of national territory and naval bases: The 1st Marine Detachment "Lynch" (Fort Condell, Iquique) and the 4th Marine Detachment "Cochrane" at Río de los Ciervos. In addition, Each zone has a "Naval Detachment of Order and Security", acting as Marine MPs. In total, this is a 5,000 man force today.

As for vehicles, the Chilean Marines operate as of today the following, but acquisition order:
-FV101 Scorpion light tank (1993) 12, and 15 more in 2008, so 32 total.
-M-973 Tracked articulated vehicles (1998), useful in winter and antarctic, assembled in Chile at Cardoen.
-M1151/M1152 HMMWV (2008): Unknown numbers, partially transferred to the Carabineros when replaced by the French PVP.
-LAV III (NZLAV) (2022), 22 second hand from New Zealand, possibly to replace the Piranas (see below).
-Kia KLTV181 (2022), an order currently has been placed to South Korea, unknown numbers. Comparable to the Hummers.
It is completed by a fleet of trucks (mostly Korean), Kia KM 420 and M998 HMMWV tactical vehicles, quads and motorcycle for the spec-ops.
In the past, it's possible the Marines operated or were leased from the army the domestic Cardoen Famae Pirana as their main armoured component.

The Chilean Naval Air Force

It's comprising the following:
6 EMB 110 Bandeirante (acquired 1976-79), 4 today
8 P-3 Orion (6 second-hand 1993, 2 P-3A, 6 UP-3A transport), 2 mod. 2019-2021 by IMP Aerospace today.
3 C-295 Persuader purchased from EADS CASA in 2007 (1 today).
7 Partenavia P.68 Italian Recce/utility Observer purchased from Vulcanair in 2015 (2 today).
3 EMB 110C Bandeirante (Transport) acquired in 1975 (1 today).
7 German Bo 105 Bölkow (UH-05) early 1990s (4 today)
5 AS332 Super Puma for ASuW/ASW/utility
9 AS365 Dauphin (HH-65) SAR, second-hand, 4 200-2006, 4 2008, last 2021.
5 AS350/H125 (HH-50) Écureuil Acquired in 2019-2023.
10 Pilatus PC-7 Turbo Trainer 8 in 1980, 2 in 1981. 7 today.

070603-N-4021H-054.PACIFIC OCEAN (June 3, 2007) - A Chilean Navy SH-32 Super Puma helicopter prepares to land on the flight deck of USS Mitscher (DDG 57) while engaged in multinational flight operations during the Teamwork South phase of Partnership of the Americas (POA) 2007. POA is focusing on enhancing relationships with partner nations through a variety of exercises and events at sea and on shore throughout South America, Latin America, and the Caribbean. U.S. Navy photo By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Damien Horvath (RELEASED).

Post-1995 decades and Future Plans

Sa'ar 4 type ship of the Chilean Navy

The Chilean navy grew to 25,000 personal (including 5,200 marines), under Admiral Julio Leiva Molina Martin as of 2017. It was expanded to 66 surface vessels, and then 74, with some 21 "major combatants" based in Valparaíso. The Navy managed to obtain an independent air branch from the air force, operating its own transport and patrol aircraft for transport, patrol, and surface and antisubmarine attack.

The navy also provides access to services for residents of Chile's Pacific and Southern island regions, thus integrating its disjointed geography. The transport of passengers, especially during the school year or in cases of emergency, together with the supply of provisions and fuel, are of key importance to the inhabitants of these insular zones.

The institution regularly carries out civil operations whereby navy professionals provide social assistance and health care to the civilian population, and provide support in cases of natural catastrophe. It also undertakes preventive education campaigns for Chile's population on issues that include security on beaches and seaside resorts, and measures to be taken in the case of a tsunami.

The most important naval bases and supply depots are (from north to south) in the Pacific Ocean: Iquique, Easter Island, Valparaíso, Talcahuano, Puerto Montt; in the Atlantic zone: Strait of Magellan and Tierra del Fuego: Punta Arenas, in the Beagle Channel, Cape Horn and Drake Passage: Puerto Williams, and in Antarctica: Captain Arturo Prat Base. These are now spread into five naval zones.

2000s fleet :

In the 2000s, the Chilean Navy started to completely change face, reorganized around frigates and submarines, plus OPVs and a sizeable amphibious branch.

8 Frigates

Type 22 Frigate, Almirante Williams at the Rio de Janeiro naval review, 2022.


Almirante Blanco Encalada, Doorman class

Single Type 22 (Broadsword): CNS Almirante Williams (FF-19) 2003
Four Type 23 (Duke class): Almirante Cochrane (FF-05) 2006, Almirante Lynch (FF-07), Almirante Condell (FF-06) in 2006-2008
Two Adelaide class: Almirante Latorre (FFG-14), Capitán Prat (FFG-11) in 2020
Karel Doorman class: Almirante Blanco Encalada (FF-15) 2005.

4 Submarines

Scorpène class (DCN Cherbourg/IZAR): O'Higgins (SS-23), Carrera (SS-22), 2005-2006
Thomson class (Type 209/1400-L): Thomson (SS-20), Simpson (SS-21) 1984 (still in service, pending modernization).

Small surface Combatants

STRAIT OF MAGELLAN (March 15, 2010) Chilean navy Sa’ar 4-class fast-attack craft Angamos and Casma perform tactical maneuvering exercises with the guided-missile cruiser USS Bunker Hill (CG 52) and the aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70). Bunker Hill and Carl Vinson are supporting Southern Seas 2010, a U.S. Southern Command-directed operation that provides U.S. and international forces the opportunity to operate in a multi-national environment. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Daniel Barker/Released)

PV-80 class: Piloto Pardo, Comandante Toro, Marinero Fuentealba, Cabo Odger OPV-81-84 (2017)
Taitao class: Contramaestre Micalvi, Contramaestre Ortiz, Aspirante Isaza, Piloto Sibbald (1996)
Sa'ar 4 class FACs: Reshef clas: Casma, Chipana, Angamos 1979, 80, 97.


Protector class: Aysén, Corral, Concepción, San Antonio, Caldera, Antofagasta, Arica, Coquimbo, Puerto Natales, Valparaíso, Punta Arenas, Talcahuano, Quintero, Chiloé, Puerto Montt, Iquique, Ona, Alacalufe, Hallef: All CPBs built at ASMAR, Talcahuano 1999-2004.

Dabur class: Grumete Díaz, Salinas, Machado, Hudson (1990-95)
Type 44 SPB: Pelluhue, Arauco, Chacao, Queitao, Guaiteca, Curaumilla (2001)
26 Archangel-class PBs. 13 tons maritime patrol/rescue services 2008-2014.
31 Defender-class PBs (4.2 tons) 2007-2012, 2018-2020 co-produced US company, design ASMAR, Valparaíso.




Capitan Prat, of the Doorman class

Amphibious ships

Foudre class: Sargento Aldea (LSDH-91, acquired 2011)
BATRAL class: Rancagua, Chacabuco LST-92 , 95: 1983-75 (ASMAR, Talcahuano)
Orompello class: Elicura (LSM-90), 1968 (ASMAR), scheduled for replacement.

Misc. ships

PACIFIC OCEAN (June 22, 2019) The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Michael Murphy (DDG 112) and the Chilean navy replenishment ship CNS Araucano (AO-53) part ways following a replenishment-at-sea. Michael Murphy is deployed to the U.S. 4th Fleet area of operations. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Justin R. Pacheco/Released)

-Cabo de Hornos (AGS-61, 2013) Oceanographic ship from ASMAR
-Taitao class: Corneta Cabrales PSH-77 (1996) Hydrographic patrol ship from ASMAR
-Ingeniero Slight: Rescue and salvage vessel BRS-63 (1997), Buoy tender from B.V.J. Pattje Scheepswerf NL

Future Navy acquisitions:

One valuable, recent Amphibious is the landing ship Foudre. Construction PZM "Patrulleros de Zona Marítima" (PZM) for each naval zone is planned. The Chilean Navy also testing drones, like the Elbit Hermes 900 unmanned aerial vehicle, under prolonged evaluation. It is planned to replace or modernize the Leander class frigates and by December 27, 2019, it was announced that Australia sold the Adelaide-class frigates, HMAS Newcastle (FFG 06) and HMAS Melbourne (FFG 05) to Chile as well, rounding the total to eight.

The amphibious force has not been forgotten, hence the Construction of four multipurpose ships (LPD), part of the project "Escotillón IV" and "plan de construcción naval continua".The latter is a cooperation agreement between Sernapesca and the Navy to operate the Pumar inspection boat model WR1250 Explore by ASMAR in Valparaíso. This is one of the latest acquisitions in 2020.

Nomenclature of Chilean Ships

The most spectacular acquisition of the Chilean Navy in the early Cold War were a pair of Brooklyn class cruisers: O'Higgins (ex-Brooklyn) and Capitán Prat (ex-Nashville) (from 1982 Chacabuco). Albeit the design of these ships went back to 1935, they were groundbreaking for US cruiser design at the time, and had been thoroughly modernized in WW2. Their key feature was a battery of fifteen rapid-fire 6-in guns in three triple turrets. Both were acquired for $37m apiece (10% of the original cost) at the time she ships has been decommissioned, and a contract for transfer led to a limited refreshing overhaul. The final transfer was done on 9 January 1951. They would be active until after the Falklands war. The same type as ARA General Belgrano and Nueve de Julio, both Chile and Argentina had a pair of similar cruisers.

As delivered, both had five triple 6-in/47 Mk.16 guns, eight single 5-in7/25 Mk.27 guns (not as good as the later DP /38) and four quad 40mm/60 Mk.2 Bofors, six twin 40mm/60 Mk.1, nine twin 20mm/70 Mk 24. More importantly, they had a relatively modern radar suite, the SPS-4, SPS-6 search radars, and the Mk.13 and two Mk.28 fire control radars. However, this suite showed its age by the late 1950s and an agreement for modernization led to an important refit in 1957-59:

Armament: Six quad 40mm/60 Mk.2 (2 more) two twin 40mm/60 Mk.1, six twin 20mm/70 Mk.24, landing pad aft and Jet Ranger helicopter.
Electronics: SPS-10 and SPS-12 radars installed. The FCS were unchanged.

O'Higgins was grounded on 12.8.1974 in Patagonia fjords. Towed back to port but never fully repaired, she became an accommodation hulk, then was extensively refitted and fully recommissioned in 1978. She was decommissioned in January 1991 and sold 10.1991. Her sister did not have any improvements and was decommissioned in May 1982, and sold in April 1983. An oddity in the 1980s, O'Higgins was camouflaged.
Also camouflaged, the ex-Göta Lejon, CNS Almirante Latorre.

The second and last important ship acqusition, at least on the prestige standpoint, was the ex-Swedish Navy Tre Kronor class cruisers.

The Cruiser in 1964 had still a modern radar guided AA artillery and electronics suite but she was put up for sale. There were proposals studied by the commission in charge from 1965 to 1970. Eventually, an agreement was struck on 25 August 1971 with the Chilean Government. The transfer was done and by September 18, the Chilean flag was raised as Almirante Latorre. She departed European waters for the Cape Horn by 9 December 1971 and stayed in service for more than a decade, until February 4, 1984. Stricken and disposed of in August 1985, sold for scrapping to Taiwanese shipbreakers.

When transferred and until decommission she had the following:
Armament: Triple and two twin 152mm or 6-in/53 M42 main guns, four single 57mm/60 M50 Bofors AA guns, 11 single 40mm/70 M48 Bofors, two triple 21-in TTs, capacity for 120 mines and four DCR.
Electronics: LW-03, type 277, type 293, fire control radars.
HM Kryssare Göta Lejon had a powerplant consisting of two shafts delivering a total of 90,000 hp, for 33 knots. Her De Laval steam turbines and their controls were housed in two separate engine rooms, forming two sets alternating with two boiler rooms and one engine room per shaft. The boilers operated with superheated steam at 32 atmospheres and a temperature of approximately 250°C. The electrical system consisted of four steam turbogenerators, five diesel generator sets rated for 220 VDC in addition to a smaller 220 DC circuit for domestic use.

She had been laid back in 1943 at Eriksberg Mekaniska Verkstad shipyard in Gothenburg but completed in 1947, refurbished between 1951 and 1952 modernized again in 1958. When her service ended in July 1, 1970, it was less due to her age and general state than a change of policy and economical restraints.
Compared to more modern destroyers she was no longer relevant and too costly to maintain. When transferred to the Chilean Navy, she was renamed and assigned the number CL 04, recommissioned under the command of Captain Carlos Borrowman Sanhueza.


Illustration of Latorre in 1979

She was mobilized among others during the bilateral tensions between Chile and Argentina in 1978, as flagship, commander in the Southern Theater of Operations, Captain Sergio Sánchez Luna, later Vice Admiral. She also took part in numerous exercises. Unfotunately there are not enough career details to motivate a dedicated page (yet). By Resolution Res. No. 4281/1 Vrs. of January 2, 1984, she was "retired from service," and by Resolution C.J.A. (R) No. 4281/5 Vrs. of July 28, 1986, she was decommissioned. By Supreme Decree (M) No. 36 of August 5, 1986, the Chilean Navy was authorized to dispose of her and she was sold at auction for demolition. On September 15, 1986, "Shiong Yek Steel Corporation" of Taiwan purchased her and she was towed there to be BU.
The scrapping was completed in 1987. Nothing survived of her.

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Chile wanted a new destroyer class in the early 1950s and went to Britain for designs. Vickers and Thornycroft competed, but the former design was chosen. It was announced on January 1954, the contract was finalised in 1955. They were built by Vickers, Barrow in Furness in 1960. This gave the yard an occasion to create destroyers which by armament and electronics (largely Netherlands Marconi sensors) were in advance of the contemporary Daring class. Their internal layout was modelled however on the Battle class. A successful design, they served until the 1990s. They sported quite a unique Vickers 4-inch dual purpose naval gun, single barrel, and capable of 50 rpm. These were better than the RN 4.5-inch guns, full automated yet more reliable, but not water-cooled. This model was initially rejected by the RN on doubts of sustained firing and still large stocks of surplus 4.5 and 4-inch guns. Both were modernized in Britain in 1975. A second pair was considered by the mid-1960s, but two Condell-class frigates (Leander) were purchased instead. Quickspecs: Disp. 2,730lt standard, 3,300 lt FL, 122.5 x 13.1 x 4 m (401 ft 11 in x 43 ft x 13 ft 1 in). Propulsion 2 × Babcock & Wilcox boiler, 2x Parsons geared turbines 54,000 hp, 34.5 knots, Range 6,000 nmi. Crew 266 (17 officers) Armament: 4× 4 in Vickers Mark Q, 5× 40mm/70 Bofors, Seacat SAM (1964), 1x5 21 in TTs, 4 × Exocet SSM 1975, 2 × Squid ASW mortars, 2×3 324 mm ASW TTs (1975). Electronics: Plassey ASW-1, 2x SGR-102 radars, type 184B sonar. Almirante Cochrane (D-15) during UNITAS XV in 1974 Two ex-Fletcher class destroyers, ex-USS Wadleigh and Rooks as Blanco Encalada and Cochrane acquired in 1963, to replace the last of their 1930 Serrano class destroyers. They were of the modernized DDE type, with new electronics (SPS-6, SPS-10, Mk 25, Mk 34 radars, QCJ sonar) and four 5-in/38 guns but also three twin 3-in/50, single TT bank, two Hedgehogs, Two DCR, Two K-Guns. Initially more planned for transfer, but former escort destroyers were instead in 1966. In the end, they were a good complement to the British Almirante class. No modernization, discarded 1982, replaced by new missile destroyers while the British Almirante were modernized. Instead of additional Fletchers, for the same price it was more affordable to acquire four DDEs, which was done in 1966. But these were converted to fast transports (APD) in WW2 and thus were specialized in amphibious warfare, a good complement to the surplus amphibious crafts purchased in the late 1940s. Class: Serrano (ex-Odum), hulk 6.1984; Orella (ex-Jack C. Robinson), hulk 10.198; Riquelme (ex-Joseph E. Campbell) stricken 3.1982; Uribe (ex-Daniel T. Griffin), same. Ministro Zenteno in 1986 (Navsource) As part of the 1974-75 modernization plan of the Chilean Navy, two more ex-US destroyers were purchased, this time FRAM II standard Allen M. Sumner class destroyers: Ministro Zenteno (ex-Charles S. Sperry) stricken 1990 and Ministro Portales (ex-Douglas H. Fox) same. As delivered they had three twin 5-in/38 Mk 38 guns, two 20mm/70 Mk 10, two triple 324mm Mk 32 TT Mk 44, 2x 24/178 Hedgehog Mk 11 ASWRL, but they operated a Chilean Alouette III. Electronics consisted of the SPS-29, SPS-10, Mk.25 radars, SQS-40 sonar with towed array, WLR-1 ECM suite. Certainly the best all-around missile destroyers of the Chilean Navy. Long story short, fuelled by increasing tension with Argentina, Chile decided as part of the 1974 modernization to acquire missile destroyers. For financial reason, this was only concluded in 1982, when tensions rose high. An agreement was concluded with the RN to sell four decommissioned County class destroyers: Capitán Prat (ex-Norfolk, retired 7.2006), Almirante Cochrane (ex-Antrim, retired 11.2006), Almirante Latorre (ex-Glamorgan, spare source 12.1998) and Almirante Blanco Encalada (ex-Fife, DO 12.2003). They diverged between them: Three were armed with four MM38 Exocet SSM (4 MM38), a twin Sea Slug Mk 2 SAM (30 Sea Slug), two quad Sea Cat GWS22 SAM (8 Sea Cat), a twin 120mm/45 Mk.6 turret, two 20mm/70 Mk.7, and carried a single helicopter BO-105CBS. And there was Almirante Blanco Encalada (D 14), which had no Sea Cat SAM, two 40mm/60 Mk 7 Bofors instead. Same helicopter BO-105CBS but a larger hangar and longer landing deck aft, going to the stern (illustration below). Electronics: Type 978, type 965M AKE-2, type 992Q, type 277, type 901, type 903, 2x 904 radars, type 184, type 162 sonars, UA-8/9, type 667 ECM suites, 2x Corvus decoy RL, ADAWS-1 CCS.

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First modern frigates acquired by the Chilean Navy in order to replace the WW2 Canadian-built River/Flower described above. Four ex-Leander class were acquired from Yarrow, Scotstoun, built on purpose and generally similar to their RN sisters. Laid down in 1967 to 1971, comp. 1970-74. Class: -Ministro Zenteno (ex-Achilles D 08) (1968), retired 2006 -General Baquedano (ex-Ariadne D 09) (1971), deactivated, kept for spare parts 12.1998 -Almirante Condell (D 06 1972). retired 2007, sold to Ecuador as Presidente Eloy Alfaro. -Almirante Lynch (D 07 1973) retired 2007, sold to Ecuador as Morán Valverde. The former had a quad Sea Cat GWS22 SAM (12), twin 120mm/45 Mk 6, triple 305 Limbo Mk 10 ASWRL, 1 Wasp helicopter The latter had 4x MM38 Exocet SSM, same but two twin 20mm/70 Mk 24, two triple 324mm ASW TT, and a BO-105CBS helicopter. Unlike british ships they had taller foremasts and their Exocet MM 38 were on the fantail. Upgrades: Almirante Condell, Almirante Lynch in the late 1980s had two twin MM40 Exocet SSM, type 1006, type 966 radars, NS-9003A, NS-9005 ECM suites plus the helicopter deck and hangar enlarged for an AS.332B Super Puma helicopter. Later they obtained the SP-100 CCS. Lynch in 2006 received a 20mm/76 Mk 15 Phalanx CIWS and Mk 90 radar to guide it. Ministro Zenteno was modernized in 1996, with two single MM38 Exocet SSM and the type 966, type 992Q radars, NS-9003A, NS-9005 ECM suites.

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These were two ex-Balao class, CNS Simpson (ex-Spot 5.1944) a single GUPPY III on 23.1.1961 and stricken in 1982 and Thomson (ex-Springer, 8.1944) transferred on 12.1.1962 in "stock" conditions and kept for spares for her sister on 9.1972. She had SS, ST, SV radars, WFA, JT sonars, APR-1 ECM suite, and amazingly she kept her 5-in/25 Mk 40 gun aft of the CT. Her sister Thomson kept her Bofors AA gun, until retired in 1977. Two ex-Oberon British conventional attack submarines. They were O'Brien (S22, 1972), transferred 15.4.1976 and Hyatt (S23 1973) both from Scott-Lithgow, Greenock, transferred 27.9.1976, stricken 3.2003 and 4.2000. Planned for a July 1974 completion, which was delayed to redo internal cabling. Similar to the regular Oberon class, they had 6 TTs, 22 torpedoes, and later upgraded with the Atlas Elektronik CSU 90 suite and BAC Type 2007 flank array. Originally they had the type 1006 radar, type 2007, type 187, type 197, type 719 sonars, Porpoise ECM suite, Mk. 2, Mk.4 Mod.1B torpedo decoy launchers. SS20 Thomson entering Pearl Harbor for a naval review, 21 June 2004. Modern attack submarines from Howaldtswerke, Kiel, West Germany, Type 209/1400C design with some tailorisation: Sail and masting 0.5m higher than other ships to cope with higher wave off the Chilean coasts, escape hatches fitted in the torpedo and engine room, additional aft hatch in the sail with access to the machinery. Thomson (SS20) launched 28.10.1982, comp. 31.8.1984 and Simpson (SS21) launched 29.7.1983, comp. 18.9.1984. Both are still in service. Two more were projected in 1988, but not funded. Originally they had the Calypso II radar, CSU-3 sonar suite, PRS-3/15 sonar, DR-2000U ECM suite. In the early 1990s this was upgraded for both to a Sinbad CCS. In 2012 for Simpson and 2013 for Thomson they received a major upgrade new 21-in bow tubes to fire SSMs, 16 torps, 4 SM39 Exocet SSM, A-184 Black Shark, SUT types. Electronics upgraded to the SUBTICS sonar suite (TSM2233 Mk 2, TSM2253 sonars), and SUBTICS CCS, satnav. The Chilean Navy expects them to serve until the 2030s. Rancagua, Batral type. WW2 stock ships: Four Fast assault destroyers (LPD, Orella class) ISAZA medium landing ship (1947-1960) or "aspirante", 4 USN LSM class ÁGUILA tank landing ships (1964-1973) four USN LST class. Águila was the former ARV(E)3. 6 LCICs (Cabo Bustos class), 8 LCPs, 22 LVCPs, 2 LCPLs. PRESIDENTE PINTO amphibious cargo ships (1945/1946): US built Presidente Errázuriz (ex-Xenia) and Presidente Pinto (ex-Zenobia), ww2 AKA type ANGAMOS amphibious cargo ship (1941/1946) merhantman from Aalborg vaerft, Denmark comp. for the Chilean Navy. Cold war vessels MAIPO medium landing ships (1982-1986) three modern ships, BATRAL class, from ASMAR, Talcahuano: Rancagua, Chacabuco LST-92 , 95 VALDIVIA tank landing ship (1971/1995) or Orompello class: Elicura (LSM-90), 1968 (ASMAR), scheduled for replacement. SARGENTO ALDEA landing platform dock (ex-Foudre, completed 1990, transferred 2011) PILOTO PARDO amphibious transport (1959): Antarctic ice-reinforced polar research and transport ship from Haarlemsche SM, Netherlands (1957). AQUILES amphibious transport (1953/1967): Former Danish Aalborg vaerft transport converted in Chile AQUILES(ii) amphibious transport (1988): Tailored ASMAR, Talcahuano ship (1987) with helicopter hangar and large cargo bay. CASMA class FAC (missile) (acquired 1997): Ex Saar 4 Casma (ex-Romach), Chipana (ex-Keshet), Angamos (ex-Reshef), Papudo (ex-Tarshish). IQUIQUE class FAC (missile) (acquired 1989): Earlier Sa'ar 3 class boats from CMN Cherbourg, Iquique (ex-Hanit) and Covadonga (ex-Hetz), both discarded in 2000. GUARDIAMARINA RIQUELME class FAC (missile) Four former West German Type 184/La combattante from Lürssen, Vegesack and CMN, acquired 1997-1998: Guardiamarina Riquelme, Teniente Orella, Teniente Serrano, Teniente Uribe, Stricken 2012-2017. GUACOLDA class fast attack craft (torpedo) 1965-1966. Four Lürssen design, built at Izar, San Fernando, Spain: Guacolda, Fresia, Quidora, Tegualda. Camouflaged for the Beagle Channel. Stricken 2001-2007. PAPUDO class sub chasers (1971). From US PC1638 type from ASMAR, Talcahuano: Papudo only (Pisagua and Abtao cancelled). Also Contramaestro Ortiz (no info). MARINERO FUENTEALBA class large patrol craft (1966-1967): Fishing boat hulls by ASMAR: Marinero Fuentealba, Cabo Odger. stricken 1999 PILLAN patrol boats (1979-1982): 10 Brazil-built (Niteroi wooden boats): Pillan, Troncador, Rano-Kau, Villarrica, Corcovado, Llaina, Antuco, Osorno, Choshuenco, Copahue. Discarded 1998-2002. ONA class patrol boats (1980): Ona, Yagan from ASENAV, Valdivia, LEP1601, 1602. Discarded 2001. ALACALUFE class patrol boats (1989): Alacalufe, Halef from ASMAR, Talcahuano, in service as of 2022.

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