23/06/2026 10:29 - Judiciales
After almost nine years of investigations, the trial for the sinking of the ARA San Juan has reached a decisive stage. The prosecution presented its arguments requesting prison sentences of up to 5 years for four high-ranking officers of the Argentine Navy. They are accused of negligent homicide and breach of duty in one of the country's most tragic military accidents.
The Federal Oral Court of Comodoro Rivadavia (a key city in southern Patagonia) is judging the following officers. For a foreign audience, it is important to note that these were the top authorities responsible for naval operations and safety:
At the time of the tragedy, he served as the Commander of Naval Operations (COAA). He was the highest authority responsible for planning and directing Argentine naval operations.
He held the position of Commander of the Surface Fleet (COFS). He was responsible for all surface vessels of the Navy.
He served as the Commander of the Submarine Force (CENCOMSUB), making him the highest authority specifically regarding submarine operations.
He was a member of the Staff of the Surface Fleet Operations Command, actively participating in the planning of naval movements.
The ARA San Juan was a TR-1700 class submarine. The tragedy shocked the nation and drew international attention. Here are the key facts:
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| Oct 25, 2017 | The submarine departs from Mar del Plata (Argentina's main naval base) with known technical deficiencies. |
| Nov 15, 2017 | Implosion of the submarine at 10:51 AM (local time). There were 44 crew members on board. |
| Nov 17, 2018 | Wreckage located at a depth of 907 meters by a specialized search vessel. |
The prosecution argues that the four defendants breached their duties as public officials by authorizing the navigation of a submarine in precarious conditions, without adequate maintenance and with known technical deficiencies. The central argument is that the tragedy was preventable and the lives of the 44 crew members could have been saved if safety protocols had been respected.
The requested penalty of up to 5 years in prison is based on the crimes of negligent homicide (meaning they did not intend to cause death, but are responsible due to negligence) and breach of public duty.
The ARA San Juan carried 44 crew members, all members of the Argentine Navy who fulfilled their duty until the very end. Their names remain engraved in the collective memory as a symbol of the sacrifice of those who serve the nation.
The trial continues at the Federal Oral Court of Comodoro Rivadavia, where a final verdict is expected in the coming weeks.
Alfredo S. Quiroga
