Juan de Nova Island, Disputed island in Mozambique Channel, Indian Ocean
Juan de Nova Island is a small territory in the Mozambique Channel between Madagascar and Mozambique, claimed by France. The site includes an airstrip and serves as a French military outpost in the Indian Ocean.
A Portuguese navigator reached the island in 1501 and named it after himself. France took control in the late 1800s and established a presence that continues today.
The island maintains a French military garrison of approximately 15 personnel who receive supplies through aerial deliveries every 45 days.
Access to this location is not open to the general public and requires special authorization. Visits are extremely rare and typically restricted to official delegations or research projects.
The waters surrounding this territory are treacherous for ships, with several old wrecks scattered in nearby waters. Coral reefs and ocean currents make navigation hazardous even for experienced sailors.
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