Southern Fenix 2024, conducted from August 27 to September 5 in Chile’s Tarapacá region, involved over 700 service members from U.S., Chilean, and Argentine armies. The event aimed to enhance technical interoperability and strengthen military cooperation. This exercise was significant for its deployment of HIMARS in Latin America and facilitated joint training activities, culminating in live fire operations. Key figures highlighted the exercise as a demonstration of alliance and commitment to regional security.
In the recent exercise Southern Fenix 2024 (SF24), held from August 27 to September 5 in the northern Tarapacá region of Chile, hundreds of military personnel from the Chilean, Argentine, and U.S. armies came together to enhance technical and procedural interoperability. This initiative aimed to bolster hemispheric cooperation and strengthen the strategic ties among the participating countries. Miguel Navarro, a professor at Chile’s National Academy of Political and Strategic Studies, emphasized the importance of this exercise, stating, “Southern Fenix reinforces U.S. interest and commitment to strengthening strategic ties with Chile and Argentina. The exercise recognizes both countries as reliable allies, with which they share not only values, but also democratic interests and military professionalism. That is key.” During the two-week engagement, participants focused on optimizing their interoperability through various strategic exercises, as noted in a statement by the Chilean Army, which underscored the precision observed in each mission performed. SF24 also marked a significant milestone as the first U.S. Army-led exercise in Latin America to utilize the M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) in collaboration with the Chilean Army. Colonel Charles Karels, director of training and exercises for U.S. Army South, referred to the exercise as an unprecedented opportunity, reflecting upon the capabilities fostered through training with such reliable partners. Approximately 200 soldiers from the U.S. Army, including members from the 11th Airborne Division and National Guard units from Texas and New York, collaborated with over 500 personnel from the Chilean Army’s 6th Division, alongside representatives from the Argentine Army. Exercises during SF24 included both day and night infiltration jumps, field training exercises, and a live fire tactical exercise. Additional activities comprised aeromedical evacuation drills as well as extensive logistical deployments to ensure the availability of crucial supplies, necessitating effective coordination among the forces. The culmination of the exercise featured a live fire event where HIMARS and Chile’s Light Artillery Rocket System (LARS) executed joint strikes in a controlled environment near the Pozo Almonte Military Camp. Colonel Karels remarked, “HIMARS deployments are commonplace in other theaters of operations. But training with this strategic asset with our Chilean partners is an important opportunity to increase our interoperability and our readiness for training and deployment.” Chilean Army Brigadier General Guillermo Altamirano also highlighted the value of such exercises, noting, “The development of this exercise allowed us, together with the United States and Argentina, to employ our knowledge, experience, and improve the way we interoperate.” Defense analyst Guillermo Holzmann articulated the significance of these collaborative efforts, stating, “Chile brings together a series of proficiencies, both in terms of defense and deployments in territories that are often unknown or unusual for the U.S. military. Exercises such as Southern Fenix are very significant for the Chilean Army, because they establish scenarios of cooperation, security, and humanitarian aid.” During the closing ceremony, U.S. Army Major General Philip Ryan praised the joint efforts observed throughout the exercise. He asserted, “Over the past several weeks, we have witnessed an extraordinary display of cooperation, professionalism, and dedication among our armies. Southern Fenix has been more than a military exercise but a testament to the enduring partnership between our nations and our shared commitment to security and stability in this hemisphere.
The Southern Fenix exercise series has emerged as a critical platform for military collaboration among South American countries, particularly focusing on enhancing interoperability among U.S., Chilean, and Argentine forces. The exercises aim not only to develop tactical capabilities but also to foster diplomatic relations and regional security cooperation. SF24 is notable for its introduction of advanced military technology, such as the HIMARS system, in a collaborative setting, allowing participants to engage in realistic training scenarios that simulate a variety of operational contexts beyond conventional warfare.
In conclusion, the Southern Fenix 2024 exercise has successfully reinforced military partnerships between Chile, Argentina, and the United States. Through comprehensive training activities showcasing high levels of collaboration and precision, the participating forces have demonstrated their commitment to enhancing interoperability and ensuring regional security. This exercise stands as a testament to the shared values and professionalism among the allied nations, solidifying their role as reliable partners in defense and humanitarian efforts.
Original Source: dialogo-americas.com
