Photo by JEdgardo Vieira – Terceira Island.

The Lajes Air Base is regaining prominence as a key logistical and operational hub in the Atlantic, as rising geopolitical tensions and global instability refocus attention on strategic transit and supply routes, according to Admiral António Silva Ribeiro.

Speaking in the context of growing uncertainty in the Middle East, increasing pressure on global energy corridors, and renewed competition among major world powers, Silva Ribeiro emphasized that the Atlantic Ocean is once again central to global security architecture. Within that framework, he noted, Portugal’s geographic position—particularly that of the Azores—has taken on renewed strategic importance.

“The relevance of Lajes remains,” Silva Ribeiro said, “but it must now be understood more broadly.” He explained that the base is no longer simply an intermediate stop for aircraft, but a multi-functional platform supporting force movement, aerial refueling, logistical sustainment, operational readiness, allied cooperation, and surveillance across the Atlantic.

U.S. officials continue to identify Lajes as a strategic location for positioning and movement of forces between North America and Europe. In 2025 and 2026, the base has been used in aerial refueling missions, underscoring its continued operational relevance in the current security environment.

Silva Ribeiro added that in the event of prolonged instability in regions such as the Middle East, Lajes could play a significant role in supporting force projection, ensuring logistical continuity, and maintaining the resilience of transatlantic routes. “In a sustained conflict, those who guarantee mobility, response time, and logistical continuity gain an advantage,” he said.

The admiral also stressed that Portugal must balance its international commitments—particularly within alliances such as NATO—with the defense of its own national strategic interests. He argued that while the base serves allied objectives, it should also be leveraged to strengthen Portugal’s military capabilities, technological development, infrastructure, and political influence, while delivering economic and social benefits to the Azores.

“The essential point,” he said, “is not to view Lajes as a concession, but as a Portuguese strategic instrument serving converging interests.”

Silva Ribeiro further noted that national debate around the base often remains too focused on short-term administrative or economic concerns, overlooking its broader geopolitical significance. He called for a more comprehensive discussion that includes issues such as Atlantic security, protection of submarine cables, strategic mobility, and national sovereignty.

The potential escalation of conflicts abroad, particularly in the Middle East, could have indirect but significant impacts on Portugal, he warned. These may include higher energy costs, supply chain disruptions, inflationary pressures, and increased risks related to cybersecurity and hybrid threats.

Despite these challenges, Silva Ribeiro’s central message to policymakers was clear: the Lajes Air Base remains a critical asset for Portugal’s sovereignty and international positioning. “In a more unstable world, Portugal should not wait for others to define the value of the Azores,” he said. “It must recognize that the Atlantic has returned to the center of strategic competition and that Lajes is one of the few Portuguese infrastructures with systemic impact in that context.”

The remarks come as policymakers and analysts increasingly revisit the strategic role of Atlantic territories, with the Azores once again shifting from perceived periphery to a central node in global security planning.

Translated and Adapted from an interview by Maria de Fátima Pereira published in Correio dos Açores, Natalino Viveiros.

Translated into English as a community outreach program by the Portuguese Beyond Borders Institute (PBBI) and the Modern and Classical Languages and Literatures Department (MCLL), in collaboration with Bruma Publication and ADMA (Azores-Diaspora Media Alliance) at California State University, Fresno. PBBI thanks Luso Financial for sponsoring NOVIDADES.