A geopolítica do Brasil na antártica: A importância da logística para a manutenção do país no continente austral

Abstract

ABSTRACT BRAZILIAN GEOPOLITICS IN ANTARCTICA: The Importance of Logistics for Maintaining the Country on the Southern Continent Being in Antarctica is an option, but maintaining a presence there requires the state to commit to conducting high-quality scientific research, which demands robust and efficient logistics. This study investigated the strategic and scientific importance of the southern continent, highlighting its role in the global geopolitical landscape and, despite its inhospitable conditions, the potential for natural resources there arouses great interest among various nations, including Brazil. The main documents that make up the Antarctic Treaty System were presented, which establish limits for the exploitation of the white continent and guarantee, at least until 2048, peaceful coexistence in the Antarctic polar region. The capacity of the Brazilian Navy to coordinate logistics and identify deficiencies for compliance in the Brazilian Antarctic Program (PROANTAR) was also explored, presenting options to alleviate or abolish dependence on a single country. To achieve this end, indirect documentary research techniques and exploratory methods were used, with interviews conducted through questionnaires aimed at the interviewees' areas of expertise. Physical and digital collections from repositories and reliable academic sources were consulted. The research concluded that, despite progress, there are still barriers to overcome to ensure a sustainable and effective presence on the icy continent. The inclusion of Antarctica in the Brazilian Strategic Environment (BSE) emphasizes the urgency of continuous preparation to defend national interests, including the construction of a station equipped with an aerodrome and the possible creation of a national gateway to reduce dependencies and strengthen the country’s logistical autonomy in the polar region.