Chile Deploys 2,700 Troops with U.S., Europe in Latin America’s Largest Security Drill

Chile will host 2,700 military personnel from 14 nations for Estrella Austral 2025, the largest special operations drill in Latin America, according to the Chilean Navy.

The exercise runs from May 24 to June 11, with peak operations from June 1–8 across 3,700 kilometers of terrain, including deserts, coastal zones, and urban centers.

Participants include forces from the U.S., Spain, Argentina, Colombia, Paraguay, Brazil, Mexico, Peru, France, and the U.K., with 10 observer nations. The drills simulate a United Nations-mandated stabilization mission focused on civilian protection and human rights enforcement.

U.S. Air Force C-5M Super Galaxy and C-17 Globemaster III aircraft delivered equipment and 900 U.S. troops, while Chile deployed over 1,800 personnel. Training scenarios include amphibious landings, urban combat, aeromedical evacuations, and disaster response.

The U.S. 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment will conduct insertion exercises using MH-60M Black Hawk and MH-47G Chinook helicopters. This year’s iteration emphasizes humanitarian operations, reflecting regional climate challenges.

Previous editions, like 2023’s exercise, involved 1,700 troops, 330 flight hours, and 35 tons of cargo. Chile’s Joint Chiefs of Staff (EMCO) and U.S. Special Operations Command South (SOCSOUTH) co-lead planning, with a Senior Leadership Seminar to align doctrines.

The exercise strengthens Chile’s role in continental security without formal defense pacts. Defense Minister Adriana Delpiano cited enhanced interoperability and technical standardization as key outcomes.

Analysts note the drills validate Chile’s capacity to lead multinational responses to hybrid threats, organized crime, and natural disasters.