Naval Station Sude

NS Sude is location in Vekllei.

Naval Station Sude, located in Godthul in the Sude Islands, serves as a peripheral Marine Services naval station of Vekllei with crucial strategic importance in southern ocean operations. The facility began as a whaling station in the early 20th century, operating as one of the world’s largest whaling hubs until commercial whaling declined in the mid-1960s. During World War II, British forces briefly fortified the station to guard against potential Axis activity in the Southern Ocean, establishing the foundation for its later military role.

Formally established as a naval station following the 2015 Antarctic Crisis, the facility plays a significant role in maintaining Vekllei sovereignty over the South Georgia islands and supporting Antarctic Fleet operations. The station currently houses a small naval garrison alongside specialised vessels including nuclear icebreaker cruisers and arsenal destroyers. The facility serves as a crucial staging base for Antarctic expeditions and supports both military and civilian shipping operations in some of the world’s most challenging maritime environments.

Resident Maritime Service Vessels (Antarctic Fleet)

• 2 Nuclear Icebreaker Cruisers
• 2 Arsenal Destroyers

Resident Littoral Service Vessels (Antarctic Command)

• 1 Wake-class Patrol Motor Launch
• 1 Heavy Icebreaker

Resident Air Service Squadrons

• No. 8 Aeromarine Wing
• No. 37 Aeromarine Sqdn. Nekros