Diego Garcia, Coral atoll in British Indian Ocean Territory.
The ring-shaped island stretches across 17 square miles of land with a north-facing lagoon and contains military installations throughout its territory.
Portuguese sailors first discovered the island in the 1500s, and it remained under Mauritian control until 1965 when Britain established it as part of its territory.
The original Chagossian inhabitants maintained coconut plantations and fishing traditions until their relocation in the 1970s to accommodate military developments.
Access to Diego Garcia requires specific military or governmental authorization, as no commercial transportation services operate to this restricted location.
The island serves as a joint UK-US military base, featuring an extensive runway and naval facilities that support operations across the Indian Ocean region.
Location: British Indian Ocean Territory
Elevation above the sea: 7 m
Part of: Chagos Archipelago
Address: BBND 1ZZ, British Indian Ocean Territory BBND 1ZZ
GPS coordinates: -7.31333,72.41111
Latest update: May 27, 2025 20:44
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