Military Winter Flying Begins in Support of Antarctic Research

The U.S. military began its winter flying period this week as part of its support to the U.S. Antarctic Program and the National Science Foundation.

The period, known as WINFLY, is scheduled to last until Aug. 30 and will deliver advance teams and cargo to New Zealand and Antarctica for the main season of Operation Deep Freeze, beginning in late September. A 13th Air Force press release provides further details of WINFLY.

Operation Deep Freeze mission oversight and support is coordinated by Joint Task Force (JTF) Support Forces Antarctica, lead by 13th Air Force.The JTF coordinates strategic intertheater airlift, tactical deep field support, aeromedical evacuation support, search and rescue response, sealift, seaport access, bulk fuel supply, port cargo handling, and transportation requirements for Operation Deep Freeze.

The U.S. military is uniquely equipped and trained to provide such support, and has done so since 1955.

U.S. Pacific Command routinely supports and interacts with a variety of U.S. Departments and Agencies, such as the U.S. Antarctic Program, on initiatives that support national defense and other areas of national interest.