Tierra del Fuego commission investigates LeoLabs radar installation

A legislative commission in Tierra del Fuego is seeking an extension to complete its investigation into a radar facility installed by the company LeoLabs in Tolhuin. The commission, chaired by Pablo Villegas and including members of the Ushuaia veterans' center, is currently gathering testimonies and documentation to establish responsibilities regarding the installation.

The investigation aims to produce a public report detailing how the facility was constructed and why the authorities were only notified long after its installation. Upcoming steps include taking statements from national officials, including former Foreign Minister Taiana. The current deadline for the commission is September 10.

Despite previous judicial rulings against the company, the radar remains operational. LeoLabs, a firm with American and British capital, has filed legal appeals to contest the cancellation of its original permits. While the Argentine government has denied that the equipment is used for espionage, technical reports cited in legal proceedings have noted a “dual functionality” for the device.