Argentina Launches 2025/2026 Antarctic Campaign with 1,365 Specialists

The Argentine Republic officially inaugurated its Summer Antarctic Campaign (LAC) for the 2025/2026 season on November 28, 2025. This launch marks a significant milestone: 122 consecutive years of Argentine presence on the sixth continent, a commitment dating back to 1904 with the establishment of the first permanent polar station, Orcadas.

This year’s extensive logistical and scientific endeavor mobilizes a total of 1,365 personnel, comprising members of the Armed Forces, alongside dedicated scientific and technical experts. This deployment underscores Argentina's enduring dedication to maintaining its operational footprint in the region.

Central to facilitating these crucial operations is the Argentine Navy’s icebreaker, the ARA Almirante Irízar. This vessel departed from the naval base in Buenos Aires on November 29. Constructed by the Finnish shipyard Wärtsilä back in 1978, the icebreaker currently carries a crew of 313 members. Following extensive repairs necessitated by a severe fire in 2007, the ship has returned to active duty. Its mission this season is multifaceted, focusing on logistical support and advancing scientific programs.

Specifically, the ARA Almirante Irízar will be instrumental in supporting the second phase of development for the joint Petrel Antarctic Base. Furthermore, it will provide necessary assistance to the CONAE project at Belgrano II, which stands as the southernmost base in the world. These activities are vital for sustaining Argentina's long-term presence.

The campaign schedule includes deploying personnel to service six permanent and seven temporary Antarctic installations. A key objective involves reactivating seasonal bases such as Brown, Cámara, Decepción, Melchior, and Primavera. Argentina proudly maintains the highest number of permanent bases and the longest continuous history of operation on the continent. The nation officially designates its claimed territory as “Argentine Antarctica,” which falls under the jurisdiction of the Tierra del Fuego, Antarctica, and South Atlantic Islands Province. The territorial claims span the sector between 25° and 74° west longitude.

Scientific investigation remains a cornerstone of this campaign, adhering to the tradition set forth since 1904. In an environment characterized by ongoing international competition regarding sovereignty, this sustained presence and robust scientific output serve as tangible affirmations of national interests in the Antarctic region. This heightened activity is further contextualized by the fact that in mid-November 2025, the Russian expedition led by Fyodor Konyukhov also departed from Ushuaia, aiming to establish the world's first solo station on the mainland, highlighting the geopolitical dynamism leading into the 2025/2026 summer.

The deployment of 1,365 individuals and the return to service of the flagship icebreaker, ARA Almirante Irízar, clearly signal Argentina's firm resolve to uphold its infrastructure and scientific endeavors in Antarctica. This summer campaign represents a crucial step in realizing national development goals and safeguarding strategic assets on the continent, where approximately 300 personnel are typically present during the austral summer months.