# Directorate of Hydrography and Navigation > government agency of Brazil **Wikidata**: [Q10266834](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q10266834) **Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/directorate-of-hydrography-and-navigation ## Summary The Directorate of Hydrography and Navigation (DHN) is a Brazilian government agency responsible for hydrographic services and navigation safety. It operates under the Brazilian Navy and manages the production of nautical charts, maritime safety information, and geospatial data. The DHN plays a critical role in supporting maritime commerce, defense, and environmental protection in Brazil. ## Key Facts - Official name: Directorate of Hydrography and Navigation (Diretoria de Hidrografia e Navegação) - Country: Brazil - Instance of: Government agency - Parent organization: Brazilian Navy - Short name: DHN - Alternative names: Diretoria de Hidrografia e Navegação da Marinha do Brasil, Diretoria de hidrografia e navegação - Website: https://www.marinha.mil.br/dhn/ - Wikidata ID: Q3030303 - VIAF ID: 135437381 - Google Knowledge Graph ID: /g/121cxphy - Commons category: Directorate of Hydrography and Navigation - Wikipedia languages with articles: Commons, French - Sitelink count: 2 - Classification: Part of the government responsible for public services related to hydrography and navigation ## FAQs ### What is the Directorate of Hydrography and Navigation? It is a specialized agency within the Brazilian Navy that oversees hydrographic surveying, chart production, and navigation safety. It supports both civil and military maritime operations through technical and cartographic services. ### What does the DHN do? The DHN produces nautical charts, maintains hydrographic databases, and ensures safe navigation along Brazilian waters. It also contributes to international hydrographic cooperation and maritime boundary delimitation efforts. ### Is the DHN part of the military? Yes, it is an integral part of the Brazilian Navy and operates under its command structure. ### What is the DHN's role in international affairs? It collaborates with global hydrographic offices and participates in organizations such as the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO), contributing to standardization and data sharing initiatives. ### Where can I find more information about the DHN? Its official website is https://www.marinha.mil.br/dhn/, which provides access to publications, charts, and institutional information. ## Why It Matters The Directorate of Hydrography and Navigation is essential for ensuring safe and efficient maritime navigation in Brazil. Its work underpins national security, economic activity such as shipping and offshore oil exploration, and environmental stewardship by mapping and monitoring marine spaces. The agency also contributes to international standards in hydrography, enhancing Brazil’s diplomatic and technical presence in global maritime governance. ## Notable For - Being the official hydrographic office of Brazil - Producing authoritative nautical charts and geospatial data for Brazilian waters - Representing Brazil in international hydrographic forums and organizations - Maintaining one of the most comprehensive hydrographic datasets in Latin America - Hosting technical expertise in marine geodesy, bathymetry, and navigation safety ## Body ### Organizational Role and Structure The Directorate of Hydrography and Navigation (DHN) is a department within the Brazilian Navy. It is tasked with the full scope of hydrographic and navigational responsibilities for Brazil. This includes conducting surveys, producing charts, and maintaining databases that support safe navigation and maritime domain awareness. The agency operates under the broader mandate of the Brazilian Ministry of Defense, through the Navy, and interfaces with civilian agencies involved in transportation, environment, and science. It also collaborates with international bodies such as the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO), ensuring Brazil's compliance with global hydrographic standards. ### Services and Functions The DHN provides a range of technical services including: - Hydrographic surveys - Production and distribution of nautical charts - Maintenance of the Brazilian Vertical Datum and geodetic control networks - Support for maritime boundary delimitation - Dissemination of navigational warnings and notices to mariners These services are critical for: - Commercial and military navigation - Offshore resource exploration - Environmental impact assessments - Search and rescue operations ### International Engagement As Brazil's national hydrographic office, the DHN is responsible for representing the country in the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO). It contributes to the development of international standards for hydrographic surveying and chart production. The agency also collaborates with regional hydrographic offices in Latin America and Africa, sharing technical knowledge and data. ### Digital Infrastructure and Data Access The DHN maintains a digital repository of hydrographic and oceanographic data. This includes: - Electronic Navigational Charts (ENCs) - Bathymetric models - Tidal and current data - Geospatial datasets for coastal and oceanic regions These resources are made available through its website and are used by both public and private sectors for planning, navigation, and research. ### Historical Context The DHN was established as part of the Brazilian Navy's efforts to modernize and centralize hydrographic functions in the early 20th century. Over time, it has evolved to incorporate digital technologies and international standards, becoming a key player in Latin American hydrography. ### Related Entities and Collaborations - Brazilian Navy: Parent organization - International Hydrographic Organization (IHO): Collaborative partner - National Cartographic System: Coordination with domestic mapping agencies - Ministry of Foreign Affairs: Involvement in maritime boundary negotiations ### Technical Expertise and Innovation The DHN is recognized for its technical capabilities in: - Multibeam sonar surveys - Satellite-derived bathymetry - Chart standardization (S-57, S-100 series) - Integration of hydrographic data with oceanographic and meteorological systems These capabilities support both national and international projects, including those related to the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) for ocean conservation. ### Public Outreach and Education The DHN contributes to academic and professional training in hydrography and oceanography. It supports the Brazilian Hydrographic School and collaborates with universities and research institutions to promote marine geospatial sciences. ### Legal and Regulatory Framework The DHN operates under Brazilian laws governing maritime zones, environmental protection, and technical standardization. It is also responsible for implementing international conventions related to maritime safety and navigation, such as those issued by the International Maritime Organization (IMO).