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The Australian Defence Force is stepping up cargo flights and support to Antarctica under Operation Southern Discovery.
Operation Southern Discovery is the Australian Defence Force’s contribution to the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water-led activity in the Antarctic region as part of the Australian Antarctic Program.
This year Navy, Army and Air Force personnel will operate in extreme locations and conditions across the Antarctic to provide a range of capabilities throughout the period, following the successful delivery of essential equipment and supplies to Antarctica by a Royal Australian Air Force C-17A Globemaster III.
Under Operation Southern Discovery, cargo flights will be conducted between mainland Australia and Wilkins Aerodrome, Air Force movements specialists will be based at Casey Station to prepare northbound air cargo, Army and Air Force signallers will be supporting the upgrade of ICT infrastructure at the Australian research stations, and a Navy meteorologist will be embedded in the Bureau of Meteorology forecasting team at Casey Station.
In addition, Navy surveyors will provide hydrographic survey support aboard Australia’s icebreaker RSV Nuyina and in the Larsemann Hills region of Antarctica. Australian-based Army and Air Force logistics specialists will prepare air and sea cargo for transportation to Antarctica while drone operators from Navy and the Defence Science and Technology Group will support terrestrial survey at Macquarie Island, and Cargo Specialists will provide support to a New Zealand Defence Force ship offloading stores at McMurdo station.
Major General Paul Kenny, acting Chief of Joint Operations, said Defence personnel, equipment and aircraft would enable significant scientific programs in Antarctica this summer.
“The long-distance transportation of supplies and the conduct of specialist and logistic support in an austere and remote environment highlights Defence’s broad capabilities,” MAJGEN Kenny said.
The ADF’s involvement in the Australian Antarctic Program is consistent with the Antarctic Treaty’s prohibition of any military activity other than the provision of personnel or equipment in support of scientific or other peaceful purposes.
Operation Southern Discovery occurs annually and primarily between November and March.
