The Southern Fenix 2024 exercise involved Chilean, Argentine, and U.S. Army personnel aiming to enhance military interoperability and cooperation from August 27 to September 5 in Chile’s northern Tarapacá region. The exercise featured various tactical operations and marked the U.S. Army’s first deployment of the HIMARS in Latin America, reinforcing strategic alliances and showcasing shared military professionalism among the forces.
From August 27 to September 5, 2024, the Chilean, Argentine, and U.S. armies participated in the Southern Fenix 2024 (SF24) exercise in the northern Tarapacá region of Chile. This collaborative military endeavor aimed to enhance technical and procedural interoperability among the armed forces and fortify cooperative ties within the region. Miguel Navarro, a professor at the National Academy of Political and Strategic Studies in Chile, stated, “Southern Fenix reinforces U.S. interest and commitment to strengthening strategic ties with Chile and Argentina.” The exercise emphasized the democratic values and military professionalism shared among these nations. Throughout the two-week duration, participating service members engaged in various tactical operations that demonstrated a significant level of precision in all missions. According to a statement from the Chilean Army, the exercise fostered an environment of experience exchange, teamwork, and heightened adrenaline. Notably, SF24 was also distinguished by the U.S. Army’s first deployment of the M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) in Latin America, heralding new warfighting paradigms in partnership with the Chilean Army. Colonel Charles Karels, U.S. Army South Director of Training and Exercises, remarked on the significance of such exercises in providing opportunity for mutual training with capable regional partners. Approximately 200 U.S. soldiers from various units integrated with over 500 personnel from the Chilean Army’s 6th Division, alongside representatives from the Argentine Army. Activities included combined night and day jump infiltrations, live fire tactical exercises, and aeromedical evacuation drills. A comprehensive logistical operation ensured troops in the field received food, sanitation, ammunition, and other vital supplies. The SF24 exercise culminated in a live fire demonstration where the HIMARS and Chilean Light Artillery Rocket System (LARS) simultaneously engaged targets in a designated training area. Colonel Karels noted, “HIMARS deployments are commonplace in other theaters of operations. However, training with this strategic asset with our Chilean partners is an important opportunity to increase our interoperability and our readiness for training and deployment.” Brigadier General Guillermo Altamirano of the Chilean Army expressed the effectiveness of the exercise in enhancing collaboration among the allied forces. Guillermo Holzmann, a defense analyst and professor at the University of Valparaíso, emphasized the importance of Southern Fenix, asserting that it provides scenarios for cooperation, security, and humanitarian aid, while also addressing non-conventional military situations. The closing ceremony featured Major General Philip Ryan, Commanding General of U.S. Army South, who emphasized the sense of camaraderie and professionalism displayed during the exercise, stating, “Over the past several weeks, we have witnessed an extraordinary display of cooperation, professionalism, and dedication among our armies.” This collaborative effort underscores the enduring partnerships among the nations involved, reflecting a collective commitment to security and stability in the hemisphere.
The Southern Fenix exercise series serves as a critical platform for enhancing military cooperation and interoperability among the armed forces of the United States, Chile, and Argentina. With regional security challenges constantly evolving, the three nations foster relationships through joint exercises that bolster their operational readiness and mutual defense capabilities. Southern Fenix 2024 specifically aimed to strengthen these trilateral military ties by engaging in various tactical scenarios and enabling personnel to familiarize themselves with advanced military equipment, such as the HIMARS system.
The Southern Fenix 2024 exercise exemplified a successful collaborative military effort, significantly augmenting interoperability between the U.S., Chilean, and Argentine forces. Through engaging exercises and strategic deployments, the participating nations not only demonstrated their commitment to shared values and security but also positioned themselves as reliable allies in the face of emerging defense challenges in the region.
Original Source: dialogo-americas.com
