The spy base we’re not supposed to know about is getting bigger
· 18 min · Episode 2087
Episode The spy base we’re not supposed to know about is getting bigger
Once upon a time, Australians were told Pine Gap was a space research facility. Today, we know it's one of America's most important overseas intelligence bases – although much of what happens there remains secret.
Now, Pine Gap is facing renewed scrutiny as defence experts say intelligence gathered at the base is likely being used to support US strikes on Iran, and an Alice Springs court recently received evidence alleging it assisted Israeli military operations in Gaza.
The Greens and Independent MP Andrew Wilkie are demanding answers, but the Albanese government has refused to say how intel from Pine Gap is being used.
In 2024, investigative journalist Peter Cronau uncovered a major expansion at the base, including three enormous new satellite dishes believed to be part of an American missile-detection system.
Today, editor of Declassified Australia Peter Cronau on what Pine Gap actually does, why its capabilities are expanding, and whether its role in American wars could put Australia in danger.
This episode first aired in June 2024.
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Guest: Editor of Declassified Australia, Peter Cronau
Photo: Google Earth
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Transcript
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