UK spotlights defense and security ties with Chile at FIDAE 2026 in Santiago
The United Kingdom used Latin America’s largest air and space show to underline its defense and security ties with Chile, as Chilean Defense Minister Fernando Barros Tocornal inaugurated the UK pavilion at FIDAE 2026 in Santiago alongside British officials.
British Ambassador David Concar, who hosted the pavilion opening, praised the organization and quality of the fair and said it showcased the longstanding alliance between the two countries in defense and the aerospace industry.
He said he was proud to participate in FIDAE 2026 and to witness close collaboration in defense, security and cybersecurity, calling the cooperation key to both nations’ security and economic growth and pledging to strengthen it. Royal Air Force Air Vice-Marshal Mark Jackson said the RAF and the Chilean Air Force share a deep collaboration built on shared values and a commitment to excellence.
He highlighted exchanges of knowledge, cutting-edge technology and best practices that range from advanced pilot training to air defense capabilities, adding that FIDAE offers a chance to celebrate what has been built and to look ahead to further growth for the benefit of both countries.
The United Kingdom’s defense attaché in Chile, Navy Captain Jason White, noted the partnership spans more than two centuries. Looking to the future, he said the United Kingdom is ready to help Chile develop its own sovereign capabilities in shipbuilding. FIDAE’s 24th edition ran from April 7 to 12 at Pudahuel Air Base in Santiago and drew large crowds, with Saturday and Sunday each comfortably surpassing 30,000 attendees.
Good weekend weather, the recent feat of Artemis crossing the far side of the Moon, and ongoing air, missile and drone warfare in the Middle East all contributed to visitor numbers. According to organizers, the fair brought together 35 countries, 440 exhibitors and some 112 official delegations.
The UK presence featured a national pavilion organized by the British Embassy in Chile and the Chilean-British Chamber of Commerce. British officials said the showcase underscored existing cooperation across defense and aerospace and offered a platform to plan the next phase of the partnership.