USAF supports Antarctic research through Operation Deep Freeze

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USAF supports Antarctic research through Operation Deep Freeze

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By Sky Industry News

Dec 25, 2024

The United States Air Force's 304th Expeditionary Airlift Squadron (304th EAS) plays a crucial role in supporting scientific research in Antarctica through Operation Deep Freeze. This operation, which has been ongoing for 26 years, involves the transportation of equipment and personnel to the continent to aid the United States National Science Foundation.

Operation Deep Freeze is essential for facilitating groundbreaking scientific research across various fields such as astronomy, atmospheric sciences, biology, earth science, environmental science, geology, glaciology, marine biology, and oceanography. The US Antarctic Program supports these endeavors by providing necessary logistics and resources.

Phoenix Airfield serves as the main resupply hub for this mission. Unlike its predecessor Pegasus Airfield, Phoenix Airfield is built on compacted snow rather than glacial ice. This makes it less susceptible to the effects of the Antarctic summer. The airfield allows C-17s and C-130s from the 304th EAS to safely deliver passengers and cargo.

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Christchurch Airport in New Zealand acts as a gateway for US logistical support to Antarctica. Airlines like China Southern and Emirates utilize Christchurch Airport as a connection point. Colonel Matthew McNulty of the 304th EAS expressed appreciation for the local community's enthusiasm for their operations: "The people here really care about Antarctica and the science that comes out of the area."

Graham Fisher, a plane spotter in Christchurch, shared his excitement about witnessing Antarctic operations: "We are so lucky that we have the Antarctic operations based out of Christchurch." He highlighted how families enjoy interacting with crew members during arrivals.

Staff Sgt. Colin Guernsey emphasized the importance of experience when flying into Antarctica: “They definitely want to send experienced people out here who really know what they're doing.” His statement underscores Operation Deep Freeze's significance in enabling vital scientific research on one of Earth's most remote frontiers.