Strengthening Military Cooperation: Southern Fenix 2024 Exercise in Chile

From August 27 to September 5, 2024, service members from the U.S., Chile, and Argentina participated in Southern Fenix 2024 (SF24) in Chile to enhance military interoperability and regional cooperation. This marked the first deployment of HIMARS in a U.S.-led exercise in Latin America, emphasizing the strengthening of strategic ties and readiness among partner nations. Various tactical and logistical exercises demonstrated the effectiveness of joint operations and commitment to mutual security objectives.

Hundreds of service members from the United States, Chile, and Argentina participated in the Southern Fenix 2024 (SF24) exercise held in the northern Tarapacá region of Chile from August 27 to September 5, 2024. The primary objective of this joint exercise was to enhance technical and procedural interoperability among the participating armies and to reinforce cooperation and collaboration across the hemisphere. Miguel Navarro, a professor at Chile’s National Academy of Political and Strategic Studies, noted that “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.” Over the two-week period, exercises focused on improving tactical and technical interoperability were conducted, which the Chilean Army reported demonstrated a high degree of precision in mission execution. The exchange of experiences, teamwork, and shared adrenaline became defining features of the exercise. SF24 also marked a significant milestone as it was the first U.S. Army-led exercise to deploy the M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) in the region, thus introducing new warfighting concepts in partnership with the Chilean Army. Colonel Charles Karels, the U.S. Army South director of training and exercises, remarked, “Southern Fenix 24 is the first exercise of its kind for the U.S. Army in Latin America. The Chilean Army is an excellent partner, and exercises like Southern Fenix provide opportunities for our U.S. Army forces to train with our most capable partners in the region.” Around 200 soldiers from various U.S. Army units including the 11th Airborne Division, 75th Field Artillery Brigade, and the National Guard, worked alongside over 500 members of the Chilean Army from the 6th Division, alongside representatives from the Argentine Army. Activities conducted during this training included combined night and day jumps, field exercises, and live-fire tactical practices, as well as medical evacuation (MEDEVAC) simulations and extensive logistical operations to supply troops with necessary resources such as food, fuel, and ammunition. The conclusion of the exercise was marked by a live fire demonstration in which the HIMARS and Chile’s Light Artillery Rocket System (LARS) fired simultaneously into a designated training area near the Pozo Almonte Military Camp. Colonel Karels pointed out that while HIMARS operations are standard in other regions, collaborating with Chilean partners using this strategic asset is crucial for enhancing interoperability and operational preparedness. Chilean Army Brigadier General Guillermo Altamirano, commander of the 6th Division, emphasized that the exercise facilitated the sharing of experiences and knowledge among the participating nations, stating, “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.” Guillermo Holzmann, defense analyst and professor at the University of Valparaíso, expressed the significant role of exercises like Southern Fenix in enhancing Chile’s defensive capabilities in challenging environments: “This is demonstrated by exercises such as Pacific Dagger and particularly Southern Fenix, which establish scenarios of cooperation, security, and humanitarian aid.” During the closing ceremony, U.S. Army Major General Philip Ryan, commanding general of U.S. Army South, praised the collaborative efforts displayed among the armies involved, stating, “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 2024 (SF24) exercise served to enhance military cooperation among the United States, Chile, and Argentina, demonstrating a shared commitment to security and stability in the region. Held in August and September 2024, this exercise highlighted the importance of military interoperability and cross-nation collaboration. Exercises like SF24 are significant for fortifying strategic alliances, sharing tactical expertise, and preparing joint forces to respond effectively to various operational scenarios, including humanitarian and unconventional missions.

The Southern Fenix 2024 exercise successfully strengthened military interoperability and collaboration among Chile, Argentina, and the United States, showcasing capabilities and fostering partnerships essential for regional security. The introduction of advanced systems such as HIMARS into training underscores the commitment of these nations to enhance their operational readiness and work collectively in diverse scenarios. High-level participation and effective logistical support reaffirmed the importance of joint exercises in promoting mutual understanding and cooperation among allied forces in the hemisphere.

Original Source: dialogo-americas.com