Argentina Mulls Formal Inspection of Chinese 'Space Station' Amid Growing Tensions

 Argentina's stance on its relationship with China is increasingly evident, with plans underway for a formal inspection of a Chinese "space station" situated on Argentine soil. The station, established in 2014 under an agreement with the previous administration, has raised concerns and triggered suspicions within the US government.

The Argentine government is considering a thorough inspection to evaluate potential irregularities associated with the base and ensure compliance with contractual obligations. This move coincides with Argentina's recent procurement of surplus F-16 fighter jets from Denmark, signaling a shift towards alignment with Western powers under President Javier Milei's leadership.

While China claims the station is for peaceful space exploration, concerns persist about its military implications and the lack of Argentine oversight. US officials have expressed skepticism, highlighting the need for transparency regarding China's activities at the base.

Despite past defenses of the station by Argentine administrations, questions remain about its operational control and the extent of Chinese military involvement. While some experts suggest US concerns may be overstated, the inspection reflects Argentina's efforts to assert control over its territory amid geopolitical tensions.

Argentina Secures Deal to Purchase Surplus F-16 Jets from Denmark

 Argentina has finalized an agreement to acquire 24 surplus F-16 fighter jets from Denmark as part of the latter's transition to newer F-35 aircraft. The deal was sealed during a signing ceremony in Buenos Aires, where Argentine Defense Minister Luis Petri and his Danish counterpart Troels Lund Poulsen inked a letter of intent.

Denmark's decision to sell its F-16 jets to Argentina follows its donation of 19 such jets to Ukraine. The transaction, described as a "possible sale," has been conducted with close coordination with the American government, which has approved the transfer of these US-produced aircraft.

Sources within the Argentine military, speaking on condition of anonymity, revealed that Argentina will pay approximately $320 million for the acquisition. Financing for the deal will involve loans from banks and the United States. Additionally, the agreement encompasses not only the aircraft but also includes weapon systems and other equipment from US manufacturers, with Denmark providing simulators and spare parts.

The final contract is expected to be signed by the end of April in Copenhagen. The US Defense Security Cooperation Agency will oversee the transfer of weapon systems, including AIM-120 missiles, through the Foreign Military Sales program. Meanwhile, Denmark's Acquisition and Logistics Organisation will manage the transfer of surplus F-16s, while Argentina's military logistics directorate will supervise the procurement process.

Negotiations for this deal began under Argentina's previous government, exploring the possibility of procuring JF-17 fighter jets manufactured jointly by China and Pakistan. However, concerns about potential implications for US military relations led to the rejection of the JF-17 acquisition, paving the way for the purchase of F-16s from Denmark.