MercoPress. South Atlantic News Agency

Chilean Navy establishes closer links with France

Chile's Navy second Scorpene class submarine “SS Carrera” left Spain Tuesday after completing several months' navigation and equipment trials.

"SS Carrera" was officially delivered lastr July to Chilean Defense Minister Vivianne Blanlot in Cartagena's dry dock belonging to the Franco-Spanish consortium DCN-Navatina.

The first Scorpene submarine, built in France by the same consortium was incorporated to the Chilean navy two years ago.

Commander Elio Concuera said the 38 men crew of the SS Carrera was very happy to return to Chile after having spent three years in Cartagena with their families.

SS Carrera puts an end to the submersible renewal plan of the Chilean navy which now is equipped with the most modern of conventional submarines in the world pointed out Commander Concuera.

"This is a completely dissuasive weapon to keep vigil over peace", he added.

The voyage to Chile, over 8.000 miles, is scheduled to reach Chile December 15.

The Scorpone submarines have a 50/60 days underwater autonomy, can dive to 300 meters and navigate at 20 knots.

In related news it was announced in Paris that French electronics company Thales will be responsible for the maintenance of the electronic systems in the four Dutch frigates which are to be incorporated to the Chilean navy next March.

The final contract between the company and the Chilean Navy's Yards will be signed next month in Chile during the Santiago Expo-naval.

Two of the frigates are for air defense and the other for multi purposes.

Thales manufactures sophisticated hi-tech equipment particularly vigilance radars SMARTS-S, LW08 and STIR; weapons system Goalkeeper; sonar PHS36; combat control and communications systems.

"This signals the beginning of a long term relation between Thales and the Chilean Navy", said Jan Kupper the French company's Services Manager.