It seems that we're all missing something very important that's happening on our doorsteps. South American countries are gearing up. Weapons purchases by those countries are off the charts and they're advanced weapons too. Why Chile would need an LPD is beyond me, but they believe they do and that's all that matters. In a limited way, Chile now has the ability to project power.The Chilean Navy (Armada de Chile) is to receive a French Navy (Marine Nationale) amphibian vessel. According media reports, the DGA (Direction Générale de l’Armement) is to transfrer the TCD type (Transport de Chalands de Débarquement) L9011 FS “Foudre” landing ship dock.With L9012 FS “Siroco”, L9011 FS “Foudre”, is one of the two TCDs in service with the French Navy.
Interesting.
Sol, from what I read about this acquisition, Chile decided that her Navy needed just such a ship as a result of the terrible earthquake she suffered in 2010. Due to Chile's unusual geography, only a large amphibious ship could be counted on to move supplies to parts of the country cut off by damaged infrastructure. I'm pretty sure Chile isn't planning on invading Peru or something like that.
ReplyDeletealso the powerhouse in S. America is Brazil, a rising power in its own right and will dominate the continent soon, it will be a strong power.
ReplyDeleteHaving worked with chiliean marines while attached to the un in Haiti, I can tell you they need this vessel. I watched a video of them scalding a cargo net down to their boats and just felt horrible for them. They are a great country and I like them over Peru.
ReplyDeleteAs Joe said, Brazil is the country.we must watch...them and Venezuela
Dudes... i'm from Brazil.
ReplyDeleteBelive at me. Brazil is a sleeping monster. And will never wake up!
Our armed forces are obsolete... We are in a program to buy 36 fighters. This program has 20 years !!
It's sad...
We will be the country of the future ... forever!
venezula is more of a threat to themselves than others, they do have oil money but they are torn internally by Chavez, he is crazy, but the country is divided, while they could pose a threat they dont have near the ability Brazil could muster.
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