On August 12, 2026, the Argentine Ministry of Defense reported on the latest edition of the Andean Winter Competitions, held at the Military Mountain School (Escuela Militar de Montaña). These competitions are a cornerstone of the Argentine Army's mountain warfare training, bringing together patrols from the three main mountain combat units to test their technical, physical, and professional skills in a demanding winter environment.
The Competitions
The event featured two main components: the Andean Winter Competitions for Argentine units, and the 43rd International Mountain Troops Competition, which also served as the first round of the South American Biathlon Cup. The Argentine Army's Military Ski Team faced off against the Chilean Army Ski Team and the U.S. Army National Guard Ski Team.
A Historic Return
The U.S. team made a notable comeback after 29 years—their last appearance was in 1997. This return underscores the strengthening of international military cooperation and the shared commitment to high-altitude excellence.
Results and Recognition
The Argentine Army claimed the first place in the international competition, while the VIII Mountain Brigade took the top spot in the Andean Winter Competitions. The awards were presented during a ceremony marking the Day of Mountain Troops, led by Defense Minister Carlos Presti and the Chief of the General Staff of the Army.
Himalaya Patrol 2026
The ceremony also served as a send-off for the Himalaya Patrol 2026, which will represent the Argentine Army in a joint expedition with the Indian Army to Mount Kamet (7,756 meters). This expedition continues the legacy of the Himalaya Patrol 2025, which successfully carried the Argentine flag to high altitudes. Mount Kamet, the second-highest peak in the Garhwal region of the Indian Himalayas, presents a significant technical challenge for military mountaineers.
The Ministry of Defense emphasized that the mountains unite and challenge, and that the troops demonstrated their training, resilience, integration, and camaraderie. The event not only strengthened ties with Chile and the United States but also paved the way for future collaboration with India. These achievements reaffirm the Argentine Army's readiness in high-altitude environments and its commitment to international cooperation.