Armando Ortíz

Armando Ortiz Ramírez was a Chilean Air Force general who served as Commander-in-Chief of the Chilean Air Force (FACh) from 1952 to 1955.

During his tenure, the institution acquired its first jet aircraft and helicopters, reorganised its operational structure and developed new training and medical facilities.

Commander-in-Chief of the Air Force

Ortiz assumed command of the Chilean Air Force in 1952 with the rank of aviation colonel. He was subsequently promoted to air brigadier general and General of the Air. During his administration, he established the institution's Senior Non-Commissioned Officer Day to recognise the highest rank among its permanent enlisted personnel.

His administration secured government approval for the acquisition of the Air Force's first de Havilland DH.115 Vampire jet aircraft from the United Kingdom. These aircraft were assigned to Aviation Group No. 7 at Los Cerrillos Air Base, marking an important stage in the development of Chilean military aviation.

Drawing on operational experience from the Second World War, Ortiz ordered the establishment of a new operational formation known as the Air Wing, following studies conducted by the Air Force General Staff. He also introduced changes to aviation cadet uniforms and revised regulations concerning personnel assignments, flight requirements and training programmes at the institution's schools, academies and anti-aircraft artillery units.

Ortiz additionally established the Air Force Hospital and oversaw the acquisition of the institution's first three Bell helicopters from the United States. In 1953, these aircraft carried out their first aerial rescue operations during flooding in central Chile, under his direct supervision.

His administration also continued the organisational arrangements for the establishment of the Air Search and Rescue Service (SAR), an initiative begun under his predecessor, General Aurelio Celedón.

Ortiz left command in 1955 and was succeeded by General Renato García.