China's plan to build sixth Antarctic base raises concerns

China's research icebreaker Xuelong is part of its growing expansion in Antarctica. ( Huang Taoming/Xinhua via AFP )

Link copied Share Share article China is preparing to build its sixth research station in Antarctica, expanding into Marie Byrd Land — a remote, little-studied stretch of the continent's west.

It has some experts and politicians worried.

Independent senator Jacqui Lambie is among those concerned about Australia's defence priorities.

"Five bases have already been built, and China claims there is no geopolitical motive," she said.

Whether that alarm is warranted depends on who you ask.

A new radio telescope installed by China's Antarctica team. ( Xinhua via AFP )

China says the new base, which it plans to build next year, will support research into climate change, ice sheets and marine systems.

And it is far from the only country with a significant presence.