VIARSA 1: Falklands Could Join in the Chase

By J. Brock (SARTMA)

At the moment, VIARSA1 is located in loose pack ice approximately 56S and 15E, which is approximately1350 nautical miles south-east of Cape Town. She is travelling in a westerly direction towards the South Sandwich Islands in loose pack ice and facing constant head winds that are typical at that latitude. Due to the extent of Antarctica’s sea ice at this time of the year, it is impossible for the VIARSA to travel much further south in an effort to elude capture. Thus, it is unlikely that she could reach a latitude where easterly winds prevail.

It is possible, when the VIARSA reaches the vicinity of South Sandwich Islands, that the Falkland Islands Government and the Government of South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands would become involved in the chase. Unlike the SOUTHERN SUPPORTER, M/V DORADA, the patrol boat that could be used in the event of involvement, is ice strengthened, though not with Class 1 capabilities.

When contacted at the Fisheries Department, Marine Officer, Jon Clark, said that as yet, the Falkland Islands Government has not been asked to participate.