Fact Check: "China and Russia have 15 military bases in Antarctica."
What We Know
The claim that "China and Russia have 15 military bases in Antarctica" is not supported by credible evidence. According to a report by M. Boulègue, while Russia maintains a presence in Antarctica, it operates only five of its ten research bases year-round, and these are primarily focused on scientific research rather than military operations (source-1). Similarly, China has established a limited number of research stations, with its latest being the Qinling base, which is its third permanent station (source-6).
The total number of bases attributed to both countries in Antarctica does not reach 15. The assertion appears to stem from misinterpretations or exaggerations of their activities in the region. For instance, a recent article mentions that both countries are increasing their presence in Antarctica, but it does not substantiate the claim of 15 bases (source-3).
Analysis
The reliability of the sources that support the claim is questionable. The assertion of 15 bases seems to be a conflation of military and research facilities, which are often used interchangeably in discussions about national presence in Antarctica. The sources that mention increased military presence or ambitions do not provide specific numbers of bases, and they often focus on the Arctic rather than Antarctica (source-2, source-5).
Moreover, the Antarctic Treaty System, which governs international relations in Antarctica, prohibits military activity on the continent, further complicating claims of military bases. The logistical support provided by military forces for national missions is often mischaracterized as establishing military bases (source-8).
Conclusion
The claim that "China and Russia have 15 military bases in Antarctica" is False. The evidence does not support the existence of such a large number of military bases operated by these countries in Antarctica. Instead, both countries have a limited number of research stations focused on scientific endeavors, and any military presence is not substantiated by credible data.
Sources
- Russia and China in Antarctica and the Southern Ocean
- ARCTIC RESOURCE COMPILATION - Air University
- Inside the secret military dialogue between Britain and Argentina
- Russia has more Arctic military bases than NATO
- What Can the United States Do to Counter Growing Chinese and Russian Influence in Antarctica
- What Are China's Long-Term Antarctic Ambitions? | RAND
- An America First Policy for the Antarctic
- Great-Power Competition Comes to Antarctica - Foreign Affairs
