Today, 5 January, we commemorate 121 years since the founding of the Naval Officers School (ESOA), a milestone in the history of military education in our country. Since its creation in 1904 under the direction of Captain Félix Dufourq, the ESOA has been a fundamental pillar in the education and training of officers of the Argentine Navy, adapting to the challenges of each era.

The institute was born with the mission to deepen theoretical and practical knowledge in essential areas such as artillery, ballistics, torpedoes, underwater mines and electricity. Its evolution over time reflects its ability to respond to the strategic demands of national defence.

In the late 1920s, ESOA moved to the Río Santiago Naval Base under the auspices of the Naval Military School. In 1942, courses began to be taught at the Puerto Belgrano Naval Base, linked to the Sea Fleet Command. Later, in 1950, the institution adopted the name of Naval Polytechnic School and, in 1978, it consolidated its current structure at the Puerto Belgrano Naval Base, where it continues to operate as the Navy Officers' School University Educational Headquarters (SEU ESOA).

Today, ESOA is part of the Navy Faculty (FDAR) of the National Defence University (UNDEF). From this strategic position, it is dedicated not only to the academic and professional training of officers, but also to the development of scientific and technical research in the naval field, ensuring that the Argentine Navy keeps pace with global scientific and technological developments.

Among its main functions are the training of Senior Military Personnel, cutting-edge research in naval operations and maritime activities, and the promotion of university extension activities, fostering the transfer of knowledge to the community and the strengthening of inter-university relations.

More than a century after its founding, the Naval Officers School continues to be a bastion of academic excellence, training leaders committed to national defence and the mission of maintaining maritime sovereignty. Its legacy inspires new generations of officers who, with discipline and professionalism, take on the challenge of protecting and serving the nation.