The Washington, D.C.-based Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) has reported that China has resumed construction of its fifth station in Antarctica, according to Reuters. The think tank revealed that, after analyzing satellite images from January, progress was detected in the construction of new support facilities, temporary buildings, and a helicopter pad on Inexpressible Island. The new station, which could be ready in 2024, will include an observatory with a satellite ground station and a dock for Chinese icebreaker ships.
China’s presence in Antarctica has been a source of concern for Western countries, which fear that it will provide their militaries with enhanced surveillance capabilities. However, China has denied these allegations and has stated that its interest is in developing new shipping routes in the Arctic and expanding its research in Antarctica. The infrastructure of the new station will also help China “fill an important gap” in its ability to access the Antarctic continent.
According to the CSIS report, the new station could be used to intercept other nations’ satellite communications and gather signals intelligence. The station will be located 320 km from McMurdo Station, the largest US station in Antarctica, and is a reminder that China is expanding its global presence in strategic areas. The 1959 Antarctic Treaty stipulates “peaceful purposes” for all activities in Antarctica; although militaries may conduct scientific research, they are prohibited from establishing bases, conducting maneuvers, or testing weapons.