MercoPress. South Atlantic News Agency

United Kingdom highlights close relationship with Chile in defense and security

Chilean Defense Minister Fernando Barros inaugurates the United Kingdom’s pavilion alongside Ambassador David Concar, RAF’s Mark Jackson, and Navy Captain Jason White

Chilean Defense Minister Fernando Barros inaugurates the United Kingdom pavilion alongside Ambassador David Concar, Mark Jackson of the RAF, and Navy Captain Jason White

With large crowds and active public participation at the various stands, along with aircraft demonstrations, the 24th edition of the International Air and Space Fair, FIDAE 2026, took place between April 7 and 12 in Santiago, Chile, at the Pudahuel Air Base.

Good weather over the weekend, the recent excellent feat of Artemis crossing the far side of the Moon, and the ongoing air, missile, and drone warfare in the Middle East all contributed to visitor numbers — with Saturday and Sunday each comfortably surpassing 30,000 attendees at Latin America's largest air and space exhibition.

According to the organizers, 35 countries were represented, alongside 440 exhibitors and some 112 official delegations, among which the United Kingdom stood out with its own stand, organized by the British Embassy in Chile and the Chilean-British Chamber of Commerce.

Chilean Defense Minister Fernando Barros Tocornal inaugurated the United Kingdom pavilion at the FIDAE26 grounds.

British Ambassador in Santiago David Concar, acting as host, praised the organization and quality of the FIDAE exhibition, as well as the demonstration of the longstanding alliance between the United Kingdom and Chile in defense and the aerospace industry.

“I am proud to participate in FIDAE 26 and to see firsthand the close collaboration between the United Kingdom and Chile in defense, security, and cybersecurity. Our cooperation is key to the security and economic growth of both nations, and as ambassador I am committed to strengthening that cooperation even further,” the ambassador said.

Royal Air Force Air Vice-Marshal Mark Jackson said they are very proud of the deep collaboration between the RAF and the Chilean Air Force (FACH). “Our partnership is built on shared values and a commitment to excellence. Together we exchange knowledge, cutting-edge technology, and best practices ranging from advanced pilot training to air defense capabilities. FIDAE is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate what we have built together and to look ahead, reflecting on how we will continue to grow this partnership for the benefit of both our nations.”

British defense attaché in Chile, Navy Captain Jason White, noted that the United Kingdom and Chile enjoy a longstanding defense partnership spanning more than two centuries, “but now we are looking to the future and the United Kingdom is ready to help Chile develop its own sovereign capabilities in shipbuilding.”