United Kingdom Uses Chile as a Logistics Hub for Operations in Antarctica

In recent weeks, various movements by the United Kingdom's Air Force have caused concern in the Tierra del Fuego and Antarctica area. Recently, the site Escenario Mundial confirmed that on February 13, through Zona Militar, a military transport aircraft Airbus A400M Atlas of the Royal Air Force (RAF), with registration ZM421, landed in Punta Arenas, Chile.

According to the information, the aircraft departed from Soledad Island in the Falklands without an official explanation being provided for the reason for its flight. However, what is clear is that its arrival reinforces the increasingly important role of Punta Arenas as a key logistical hub for British operations in the Antarctic region.

Subsequently, the British military aircraft took off from Punta Arenas and continued its journey to Antarctica, possibly destined for the Rothera Research Station, located on Adelaide Island, west of the Antarctic Peninsula.

The movement of the A400M occurs amid a series of British deployments in the area. Chile, through Punta Arenas, not only acts as an air support point but also as a naval logistics center. Recently, a scandal erupted over the use of the Chilean city as a base for the operations of the research vessel Sir David Attenborough.

This vessel is one of the most advanced in polar research worldwide. It is dedicated to conducting crucial scientific surveys, in addition to providing essential supplies for the United Kingdom's research stations in Antarctica.

Operated by the British Antarctic Survey (the UK agency dedicated to research in Antarctica), the vessel sails under the "Falkland" flag, belonging to the colony established by the United Kingdom in the Falkland Islands, which is illegal within the Argentine maritime jurisdiction.

The strategic location of Punta Arenas, along with its infrastructure designed to support scientific and military operations, makes it a key point for missions to Antarctica. In this context, the growing British deployment could have repercussions on the regional dynamics and diplomatic relations with South American countries with interests in the white continent.

British interest in Antarctica

A recent article from the British media The Telegraph confirms what has long been feared: the United Kingdom is developing a strategic plan to exploit Antarctica's resources before Argentina. From its base in the Falklands, London is trying to consolidate its presence in the white continent, particularly in the areas claimed by Argentina, through the use of technologies, scientific equipment, and greater investment.

The article was published on January 23, 2025, written by Tom Ugh and titled: "The Antarctic Oil Bonanza That Could Save Britain, But We Must Get There Before Argentina".

The journalist analyzes the opportunities represented by access to Antarctica, the abundance of resources to explore, and points out that Argentina could become a key competitor in the race to conquer the white continent.