Paraguayan Navy Ships Make Historic Passage Through Yacyretá Lock

Two historic vessels of the Paraguayan Navy, the Cañonero Paraguay and the Patrullero Capitán Cabral, have completed a significant journey, passing through the navigation lock of the Yacyretá Hydroelectric Dam. This marks a notable event for the Paraguayan Navy and its maritime heritage.

The two ships departed from Puerto Villeta on Monday and are expected to arrive in Encarnación on Saturday, August 22. Their voyage is timed to coincide with the 2026 World Rally Championship, scheduled from August 27 to 30. During the event, the historic ships will serve as a tourist attraction, showcasing Paraguay's naval history to an international audience.

The Cañonero Paraguay boasts over a century of history. Designed by Paraguayan naval engineer José Bozzano and built in Genoa, Italy, it was launched in 1930. It played a crucial role during the Chaco War (1932-1935), transporting over 50,000 soldiers and providing strategic artillery support. In 2023, it was modernized with new diesel engines, replacing its old steam system, and now serves as a training ship for the Paraguayan Navy.

Similarly, the Patrullero Capitán Cabral has a long service record. Built in the Netherlands in 1907 as a tugboat named Triunfo, Paraguay acquired it in 1908. It participated in the 1922 Revolution and the Chaco War, transporting troops and supplies. After being refitted with diesel engines in 1980, it remains one of the world's oldest operational military vessels. Currently, it serves alongside the Cañonero Paraguay in training naval cadets and midshipmen, as well as undertaking humanitarian missions to isolated communities in the Paraguayan Chaco.