South American Countries Taking Lead on High-Latitude Capability

The world is witnessing a significant shift in polar research and maritime operations. Recently, Colombia launched its newest polar-capable research vessel, the ARC Simon Bolivar (PO-151). This vessel, adorned with the iconic racing stripe of coast guards, recently completed its maiden voyage to Antarctica. It is a notable addition to South America’s growing fleet of ice-capable vessels. As the United States and its allies face challenges in maintaining a presence in high-latitude regions, Colombia’s efforts highlight the importance of looking southward for partnerships and expertise in polar operations.

The Challenge of Building High Latitude Maritime Capacity

The National Strategy for the Arctic Region emphasizes the need to expand the U.S. Coast Guard’s icebreaker fleet. This expansion aims to ensure a persistent presence in the Arctic and enhance operations in the Antarctic. However, the U.S. has struggled to meet these goals. Critiques of the Coast Guard’s current icebreaker fleet and the Polar Security Cutter program are widespread. Yet, a crucial aspect often overlooked is the operational capacity to maintain and operate these vessels in extreme conditions.

Partnerships with traditional Arctic allies are essential for building the necessary skills for high-latitude operations. However, opportunities for U.S. Coast Guard and Navy personnel to gain experience on NATO vessels are limited. This gap presents an opportunity for collaboration with South American nations, which have developed significant polar capabilities. Countries like Chile and Argentina have established research stations and icebreakers, making them valuable partners for the U.S. in enhancing its polar operational capacity.

South America’s Efforts in Antarctica

While the United States often focuses on its own polar explorers and research programs, it overlooks the capabilities of South American nations in Antarctica. Countries like Argentina, Chile, and Brazil have made substantial investments in their polar fleets. Argentina is set to double its heavy icebreaker fleet, while Colombia recently launched the ARC Simon Bolivar. Chile’s CNS Almirante Viel was commissioned just last year, and Brazil is preparing to launch its next-generation icebreaker in 2025.

These nations operate over 30 research stations, with a year-round presence at 12 of them. They also utilize various aircraft to support Antarctic operations. Furthermore, South American navies and maritime services have developed a wealth of polar expertise. The Argentine Navy’s School of Marine Sciences offers internationally recognized courses in polar navigation, attracting students from around the world.

As the U.S. Coast Guard grapples with delays in its icebreaker fleet recapitalization, it is clear that South American nations are actively enhancing their polar capabilities. This presents an opportunity for the U.S. to engage with these countries, fostering partnerships that can strengthen its own operational capacity in the polar regions.

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Icy Operations: How U.S. Forces Are Engaging the Polar South

The geography of South America offers unique opportunities for U.S. forces to train in extreme conditions. While the Northern Hemisphere experiences summer, South America provides a venue for cold-weather training. The U.S. Army’s 10th Mountain Division and Marine Corps units have already engaged with their Chilean and Argentinian counterparts to enhance their cold-weather tactics.

The U.S. Coast Guard has also conducted international engagements in the region, focusing on illegal fishing operations. However, efforts to bolster polar cooperation have been limited. Recent visits by the USCGC Polar Star to Chile marked a significant step in re-establishing connections, but more frequent engagements are necessary.

To build high-latitude operational capacity, the U.S. Coast Guard and Navy should consider personnel exchanges with South American nations. These exchanges would allow U.S. officers to gain valuable experience in polar operations while providing opportunities for South American officers to participate in U.S. icebreaking missions. Expanding training programs and establishing logistics partnerships will be crucial for enhancing operational readiness in the polar regions.