Argentina launches Patagonia Austral airport security unit

Argentina has launched the Regional Airport Security Unit (URSA) VI – Patagonia Austral, a new structure of the Airport Security Police (PSA) based in Ushuaia. The initiative, led by National Security Minister Alejandra Monteoliva and PSA Director Carlos Tonelli Banfi, aims to decentralize federal security operations to better manage the strategic southern region.

The new unit will oversee Tierra del Fuego, Antarctica, and the South Atlantic Islands, as well as parts of Santa Cruz and Chubut. This reorganization stems from the division of the previous Regional V (now Patagonia del Norte), intended to adapt human and material resources to the specific geographic and logistical challenges of the area.

Key objectives for the URSA VI include enhancing surveillance of passenger and cargo flows, conducting criminal investigations into illicit economies, and combating organized crime and drug trafficking. Officials noted that the increased presence is necessary to support the region's growing hydrocarbon activity, industrial investment, and tourism.