On August 22 in Puerto Williams, naval forces from Chile’s Third Naval Zone and Argentina’s Austral Naval Area commenced the Viekaren exercise.
Aimed at improving coordination and trust between both nations, this joint activity is rooted in the 1984 Peace and Friendship Treaty.
The Viekaren exercise, which translates to “Trust” in the Yagán language, focuses on training naval personnel from both countries.
They aim to collaboratively address maritime emergencies in the Beagle Channel area, emphasizing safeguarding human life at sea.
The 2023 edition of Viekaren will simulate potential maritime emergency situations in this region.
Activities will encompass maritime traffic control, search and rescue operations, and addressing potential aquatic contamination from fuel spills.
Among the participants are various patrol boats from both Chilean and Argentinean fleets.
Initial drills included addressing oil contamination and practicing responses to potential ship damage.
Jaime Jara, the commander from Chile’s naval district, underscored the exercise’s significance, noting the growing maritime activity in the Beagle Channel.
He stressed the need to be prepared for emergencies, especially with the rise of tourism vessels in the area.
Similarly, Ángel Vildoza from the Argentinean navy emphasized Viekaren’s objectives, highlighting the collaboration between Argentine and Chilean units stationed in Puerto Williams.