(Infodefensa.com) L. Vasquez, Santiago, Chile - The Chilean Navy has asked his government authorization and funding to purchase the ship amphibious assault transport 12,000 tons Sirocco , according to confirmed sources of the sector solvents Infodefensa Chile .According to sources, the Commander in Chief of the Chilean Navy, Admiral Edmundo Gonzalez , and confirmed the government's interest in incorporating strength ship offered by the French authorities. However, managing to complete the sale shall rest González successor, Admiral Enrique Larrañaga , who takes office next June 18.
The Sirocco will be removed from service by the National Marine France later this year as part of the implementation of military cuts announced in the Defence White Paper , published by the French Government in April.
As part of plans to increase its force projection capability from the sea, at the end of 2011 Chile acquired the former Lightning, Sirocco Twin. The ship was renamed Sergeant Village and joined the fleet of the South American country in early 2012.
The Chilean Navy plans considered to have two amphibious assault ships, so that one of the ships is always in working condition, while the other is in regular maintenance periods or unexpected repairs.
The same plans establish a preference for both assault ships are the same model or design, to reduce operating costs and logistics.
According to sources in Santiago, the former transfer contract signed in late Foudre 2011 included a provision that gives Chile the first option to buy the Sirocco.
In 2012, the Chilean Navy activated a Amphibious Expeditionary Brigade (BAE) 1,400 troops strong. The force, described as rapid deployment consists of two reinforced battalions of infantry amphibians and other support units Marines, plus a mobile anti-aircraft battery of the Air Force.