The Navy and Digital Modernization

La Tercera, Friday, February 15, 2019

Historically, the Chilean Navy, due to its activities, has been a leader in the development and introduction of new technologies. Much of this has been and continues to be related to the evolution of the combat platforms it uses in its role of protecting Chile’s sovereignty and maritime interests, and more recently, in the construction by ASMAR of the modern scientific vessel “Cabo de Hornos” and the future icebreaker that will replace the Viel, which was recently decommissioned.

What is now different, noteworthy, and timely is the work being carried out by the General Directorate of Maritime Territory and Merchant Marine (Directemar), which directly impacts users of its maritime, port, and river services, as well as the general public engaged in water sports and visiting beaches, rivers, and lakes during the summer season.

Directemar has implemented online applications and mobile applications for “smartphones” that allow users to complete procedures online and access timely information regarding the services provided, as well as the status of beaches, emergency services, water sports, and more.

Perhaps the most innovative feature is an application called “e-Tip,” which allows users to have their maritime professional identifications electronically on their mobile phones, including, among others, licenses to operate boats, sailboats, and jet skis.

It would be ideal if something similar existed for motor vehicle driver’s licenses. We are discussing the digital modernization of state services that are available and operational for mobile phones, which can be found by searching for Directemar in the App Store or Google Play.