China has resumed construction on its fifth research facility in Antarctica, following full in progress since 2018. The new research station, located on Inexpressible Island near the Ross Sea, is expected to fill a major gap in China’s coverage of the continent. The 5,000-square-meter station will include scientific research and observation areas, an energy facility, a main building, a logistics facility, and a wharf for China’s Xuelong icebreakers.
Construction progress
Satellite imagery taken in recent months by Maxar reveals new support facilities and groundwork for a larger structure at the site. The completed research station will focus on a range of scientific disciplines including physical and biological oceanography, glaciology, marine ecology, zoology, atmospheric and space physics, and geology.
Potential dual-use capabilities
The Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) reports that the station’s position could enable it to collect signals intelligence from US-allied Australia and New Zealand, as well as telemetry data on rockets launching from newly established space facilities in both countries. The station’s inclusion of a satellite ground station could also support intelligence collection. The potential for dual-use capabilities raises Western concerns about China’s assertive foreign policy and surveillance capabilities.
China’s strategy
China’s strategy for Antarctica, as noted in a 2022 Department of Defense report on their military, involves the use of dual-use technologies, facilities, and scientific research. However, it has stressed the scientific nature of its ambitions in the region, with Vice Premier Han Zheng hailing the contributions of Chinese researchers to humanity’s scientific understanding and peaceful use of polar and ocean regions.
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Restrictions under the Antarctic Treaty
Under the Antarctic Treaty to which China is a party, activities on the continent are restricted to peaceful purposes. According to the Antarctic Treaty, military personnel can conduct scientific research in Antarctica but are prohibited from setting up bases, testing weapons, or carrying out maneuvers. During a 2020 inspection by US inspectors, no military equipment or personnel were found at the station.
