The Brazilian Navy (MB) officially started its Operation Antarctica (OPERANTAR) 2023 last Sunday with the departure of the Oceanographic Support Vessel “Ary Rongel” and the Polar Vessel “Almirante Maximiano”, it was reported. The units will support the Brazilian Antarctic Program (PROANTAR) before returning to the Ilha das Cobras naval base in Rio de Janeiro in April 2024, it was also explained.
Chile is planning a strong expansion of its Antarctic and maritime support vessels as well as a major repair yard, according to a recent pledge by President Michelle Bachelet during the opening of the Exponaval and Trans-Port exhibitions in Valparaiso and Viña del Mar.