China's plan to build sixth Antarctic base raises concerns
China is planning its sixth research station in Antarctica, sparking concerns among some Australian politicians and experts regarding geopolitical influence. While China maintains the base is for scientific research, critics argue it is a strategic move to increase its presence in the region.
Why it matters
The expansion highlights growing international competition for influence in Antarctica and potential tensions regarding the Antarctic Treaty System.
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.
"Open your eyes, [Department of] Defence."
Whether that alarm is warranted depends on who you ask.
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.
The US operates three permanent year-round bases. So does Australia, which claims 42 per cent of the continent, while Russia has five year-round stations.
But experts warn what matters most is not the station itself.
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