According to a publication by the shipyard SIMA (Servicios Industriales de la Marina S.A), the submarine of the Peruvian Navy B.A.P. “Chipana” (SS-34) underwent stability tests after completing its modernization at the end of 2023 and subsequent launching.
According to the schedule of tests and trials, the B.A.P. “Chipana” was transferred to the Syncolift lifting platform, from which the submarine was successfully launched, confirming its stability. The maneuver took place at the Callao Operations Center, SIMA’s main operational facility.
The B.A.P. Chipana is the first Type 209/1200 submarine of the Peruvian Navy (MGP) to undergo maintenance and modernization work at SIMA. The shipyard also houses the submarine Antofagasta (SS-32), the second unit included in the Submarine Capability Recovery Project of the MGP.
The performed works, which included cutting the pressure hull for the installation of new MTU 12V493 AZ80 GA31L engines and the replacement of its 480 batteries, received technical assistance and supervision from the German shipyard Thyssen Krupp Marine Systems (TKMS). Additionally, the installation of a new shooting and combat system called “Kallpa” was carried out, along with new periscopes and the capability to launch anti-ship missiles SM-39 Exocet.
Once the harbor tests and sea trials are completed, the Chipana will be officially handed over to the Peruvian Navy to continue evaluations, obtaining an additional 15 years of service life through the conducted modernization.
*Image Credits: Peruvian Navy
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